Western Horse Review Christmas 2021 Edition

Extreme Cowgirls Compete in Texas

Winter Laminitis

BY MONIQUE NOBLE

BY ALEESHA HARRIS

Horsemanship • Culture • Style

CHAMPIONSHIP SHOWCASE Year-End Canadian Show Highlights

BARN BLISS A Southern Alberta Stable that Doubles as a Retreat

NOV/DEC 2021

$4 IN CANADA $5.95PRINTED PRINTED IN CANADA

DISPLAY UNTIL DEC 31, 2021 PUBLICATION MAIL REGISTRATION NUMBER 42204012

95

Jingle all the way

westernhorsereview.com

Your Guide to a Western-Styled Christmas.

Thank you to everyone who made the Canadian Spectacular’s return a success!

THANK-YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:

2021 payout over $177,000!

Platinium Show Sponsor

MTE Logistixs - Dennis and Connie Nolan Gold Sponsors The Lorrnel Group - The Cicoria Family Aerium Analytics Inc. - The Cicoria Family Silver Sponsors Canadian Breeders Bronze Sponsors The Matthews Group - Kris & Ray Matthews AFAB Industries - Les & Corrine Jack T & T Gravel - John and Deb Thomas Heather & Rocky Davis Gibson Livestock Silver Slate Arena - The Santangelo Family Platinium Pipeline Pillows - Paul Dagesse Awards Sponsors Pauli Smith Energy Equine - Chad Hewlett Sandero Ranch -Colette and Albert Benson Lynn & Judy Edge Violet Creek Farms - Binky Moffat and John Drydyk Scott Brady Smith Cutting Horses - Cody Smith Zender Ford - Ken Zender Christopher Eggertson Brad Tkacik Marc Roy Tattoo Art Hansma Cutting Horses Colin & Michelle Vander Brink Vanee Livestock - Randy and Doug Vanee Welland Muri GD Cutting Horses - Glen Beveridge K&K Livestock - Ken and Karen Mix

OPEN FUTURITY CHAMPIONS Johnny Lukacs & Reybellious

OPEN DERBY CHAMPIONS Glen Beveridge & Louella Rey, owned by Amanda Weber

OPEN CLASSIC CHAMPIONS Brad Pedersen & Faith In My Metal,

NON-PRO CLASSIC CHAMPIONS Thomas Thorlakson & Lou Rey,

owned by Ryan Richels

owned by Thomas & Michaela Thorlakson

NON-PRO FUTURITY CHAMPIONS Larissa Price & High Yall

NON-PRO DERBY CHAMPIONS Pauli Smith & Blu Lilies

Friends of the Spectacular Cam Clark Jim Mann Pedersen Training Centre National Transmission Sara Kalke Brian and Colleen Pearse Breeding Donations Cats Picasso Smokin Smooth Dually Red Hott Cat Reys From Heaven Wendalls Got A Gun Aerium Analytics

www.canadianspectacular.com

Horsemanship • Culture • Style

Vol. 28 No. 6 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

www.westernhorsereview.com

EDITORIAL editorial@westernhorsereview.com Publishers Clay & Jenn Webster Editor Jenn Webster Art Direction and Production Kendra Roberts Advertising (403) 250-1128 or advertising@westernhorsereview.com Marketing & Account Executives Sally Bishop sally@westernhorsereview.com Subscriptions $19.95 CDN - 1 year Subscription $39.95 USD - 1 year Subscription For SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES: 1-855-464-4523 or subscriptions@westernhorsereview.com For BACK ISSUES visit our Store at www.westernhorsereview.com

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Learn about Chief Crowfoot, Solidier of Peace.

ONLINE EXCLUSIVES View us online for the latest in western riding, equine care, culture & style.

Visit our blogs and Facebook to get breaking news on show results, contests and horse industry news.

Visit our Breed & Sports News blog for all the latest buzz and coverage of the horse world and show scene.

Contributors

BAR XP PHOTO Mike Edgar Krystina Lynn Photography Debbie MacRae Isabella Morton Monique Noble Dina Sutherland Piper Whelan Published six times a year by: WESTERN PERFORMANCE PUBLISHING INC. Suite 814, 3545 - 32 Ave. NE, Calgary, Alberta T1Y 6M6 (403) 250-1128 editorial@westernhorsereview.com www.westernhorsereview.com

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4 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

Highlights from the 16th annual Production & Broke Saddle Horse Sale held in Maple Creek, SK.

This crowd-pleasing beef wellington is a perfect centrepiece. If it doesn’t steal the show, the side dishes definitely will!

Dr. John McCrae is most famously known for penning one of history’s most evocative war poems, In Flanders Fields.

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contents Out West 8

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

10

LEAD LINE

12

OUT WEST

14

OUT WEST

16

WESTERN INSIDER

A special, commemorative mural is installed at the Millarville Racing and Agricultural Society.

Two Alberta cowgirls travelled to Texas recently to compete in the Extreme Cowboy Association 2021 World Championships.

The flooding of the Sumas Prairie in British Columbia has left many farms in heart-wrenching situations.

Canadian highlights from the World Finals Of Team Cattle Penning and Ranch Sorting, and an Alberta cowgirl is announced as a Western Finalist in RBC’S Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards.

Extreme Cowgirls Compete in Texas

Winter Laminitis

BY MONIQUE NOBLE

BY ALEESHA HARRIS

Horsemanship • Culture • Style

CHAMPIONSHIP SHOWCASE Year-End Canadian Show Highlights

BARN BLISS A Southern Alberta Stable that Doubles as a Retreat

NOV/DEC 2021

$4 PRINTED IN CANADA $5.95 PRINTED IN CANADA

34

1 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

6 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

DISPLAY UNTIL DEC 31, 2021 PUBLICATION MAIL REGISTRATION NUMBER 42204012

95

Jingle all the way

westernhorsereview.com

Your Guide to a Western-Styled Christmas.

ON THE COVER: The Otto barn, a custom-built southern Alberta stable that is more than just country charm.

Photo by @dina.sutherland.

32

10 Western Culture

19

WESTERN FOODIE

22

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

30

GOOD WORK

32

34

These slow-cooked beef shanks with a glaze reduction, served on a bed of smoked blue cheese polenta is bound to become your next familyapproved classic.

Western lifestyle presents for everyone on your list!

The artistry of Tim Hiller has taken the discipline of blacksmithing to a new frontier.

MUSIC OF THE WEST

Singer-songwriter Jennie Harluk, is a bright, young artist to keep an eye on in the Canadian country music scene.

HOMES OF THE WEST

With a flair for rustic luxury, this stunning, southern Alberta barn is more of a retreat than it is a place to house horses.

40

22

Features 38

WINTER LAMINITIS

Laminitis can occur in the winter months for all the same reasons it happens at other times of the year, but there may additional risk factors contributing to it during colder weather.

40

PRIVATE ALEXANDER DECOTEAU

44

49

54

A product of residential schooling, he rose like a phoenix from the ashes of inequity to become one of western Canada’s most celebrated heroes.

THE CANADIAN SPECTACULAR

With only a few days notice, the Canadian Spectacular committee worked with health services to ensure the show would continue and paid out over $177,000 to competitors.

REINING ALBERTA UPDATE

With show entries through the roof and enthusiasm that just kept growing, Reining Alberta had an amazing 2021.

THE BACK FORTY

Lee McLean reminisces about the joys of Christmas.

44 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 7

publisher’s note

Tara McKenzie Fotos

Something for Everyone

I

t’s been one of those days…. And it’s only 8 in the morning The dogs have a vet appointment today and somehow, they know.

One runs away to the barn, never to be seen again. The other refuses to get in the truck. So much for an 8:30 appointment…

The winds have been so brutal these last few days, our backyard patio furniture is in the front pasture. And upcoming, it’s the dreaded season of moving elves.

Remembering. Every. Single. Day. In this issue, we bring you our annual Christmas Gift Guide, stocked with present ideas for all the horse lovers on our list.

Writer Monique Noble specifically curated items from local businesses, to help ensure small Canadian businesses stay alive this season. Of course, it’s easy to be swayed by the deals on offer from big box companies these days, but supporting local and supporting small, supports vibrancy in our agriculture communities. Check out all the amazing gift ideas on page 22.

Then on page 34, we bring you our cover story about a southern Alberta barn that has charm for days. Owner Lisa Otto discovered after building it that she prefers to spend more time there, than in her own house. After you see the photos taken by Chuckwagon Queen, Dina Sutherland, it’s easy to see why.

In our health section (page 38), writer, Aleesha Harris explains about winter laminitis and on page 30, BAR XP PHOTO (Kirk Prescott) interviews a talented metal artisan who is taking the art of blacksmithing to a new frontier. In our history piece (page 40), writer Debbie MacRae pens the inspirational story of Private Alexander Decoteau – a man who truly rose like a phoenix from the ashes of Canada’s residential schooling system.

And finally, in our championship showcase, we bring you some highlights from year-end Canadian western performance events.

This edition really has something for everyone. As always, we hope you enjoy! ~ Jenn Webster

Send your comments, questions, letters or story ideas to me at editorial@westernhorsereview.com. We may include them in an upcoming edition of Western Horse Review.

8 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

Dear Santa, I’ve been good all year. Ok, most of the time.

Ahh, once in awhile. Nevermind, I’ll buy my own art ...

Little monkey metal works Find us at the following Christmas Markets:

Millarville Christmas Market: Nov4-7 & Nov 11-14 Art Market: Nov 18-21 Spruce Meadows Christmas: Nov 26-28 & Dec3-5 Carter Cadillac For Calgary Fine Art: Dec 10-12 Cochrane Christmas Farmer’s: Dec 11-12

Monkey Wranch Gallery CHRISTMAS Open House Dec 18 & 19 Or check out our NEW website to shop online & for market details

www.littlemonkeymetal.com S IS FOR STAMPEDE follows the alphabet and beautifully positions artwork with explanatory dialogue to describe the events, people, animals and history of the Calgary Stampede!

FOR THE BEST GIFT IDEAS Ladies & Men’s Wear Ranchwear Home Decor Southwest Rugs Pendleton

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is for BRONCS, BULLS & BARREL RACING

Central to the 10 days of Calgary’s annual western gathering is the Stampede Rodeo. This event runs daily at 1:30 pm in the Grandstand Infield and is known as the World’s Largest Outdoor Rodeo. It features the best competitors and rodeo livestock in the world in a dramatic display of western grit.

Rodeo competition has its roots in ranching history. It has evolved to include many sports and the world’s top cowboys and girls contend for millions of dollars in prize money each year.

Purses at the Calgary Stampede have increased over the years, growing it into one of the world’s richest rodeos. The six main events in Calgary are bull riding, barrel racing, saddle bronc and bareback riding, tie down roping and steer wrestling. There are additionally four junior events.

Top competitors advance to Day 10, known as “Showdown Sunday” for a chance to win the $100,000 grand prize in front of Calgary’s large, enthusiastic audience.

Follow the Alphabet Follow with thethe Calgary Stampede Written

by Jenn Webster and Illustrated by Karen Coe Fine Arts Alphabet with the Calgary Stampede

Featuring the exceptional artwork of Karen Coe Fine Arts and written by Jenn Webster. This entire book was published, printed and bound in Canada.

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Shop 24/7 at codyandsioux.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 9

Leadline

MEMORIALIZED IN METAL

LOCAL ARTISAN, MICHAEL PERKS HAS gone above and beyond, commemorating the history, community and volunteers that unite a deeply rooted, agricultural hub in Millarville, AB. Originally commissioned in 2019, the breathtaking mural was revealed at a private function in August of 2021. The Legacy Recognition Project celebrates more than 115 years of community, spans 32 feet in length and stands seven feet tall. Uniting various elements of the community, the magnificent art piece adorns the south, exterior wall of the Millarville indoor riding arena. The sculpture tributes hundreds of dedicated volunteers, instrumental in developing The Millarville Racing and Agricultural Society (MRAS).

Parallel to the vision and mission of the

MRAS, Perks respectfully values local history and civic unity. He stated, “To me it’s about community, the celebration of our heritage.”

As a tenured vendor at the Millarville Farmers Market and a vibrant, local artist, Perks was a natural candidate for the project.

Also, his wife Claire’s grandparents, Art and Theresa Patterson were founding members of the Millarville races and held position with the agricultural society for many years.

“The Pattersons now have six generations that have participated in the MRAS. My Grandfather Arthur Patterson was Honorary President for 25 years and my Grandmother, Theresa, was the Fair Director for 20 years. My Great-Grandma, Janette Burrows, Grandma, Theresa Patterson and Aunty, Louise Bruns were part of a group that fed the judges at

10 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

the fair for 30 years and became known as the courtesy committee,” Claire remarked.

The MRAS began with horse races in 1905. Soon after, the Priddis and Millarville Fall Fair launched in 1907. A community hall was constructed in 1950 and the three groups amalgamated in 1970. Supported by the Alberta Agricultural Societies act, the evolving group of volunteers has proudly served the Foothills Municipal District for many years. With a rich history and a bright future, the MRAS remains centered around volunteers. In fact, the main feature of the mural, an eight foot-long, majestic, metal horse is constructed of 150 name cutouts that honour life-long members. Perks and his charismatic wife, Claire remain passionate about their involvement in the project and

THE CORRELATIONS:

hold a great deal of insight, regarding its message.

“The piece was originally scheduled to be installed in the spring of 2020 but with COVID that was put on hold. This was fortuitous as it afforded Michael more time to explore new statue techniques. If you look closely at the heads of the two horse statues you will see solid, steel heads with elaborate shape and detail. The bodies of the horse statues are made up of the cutouts of hundreds of names,” Claire noted.

Claire further detailed the art-piece, explaining that, “The Legacy Horse (racehorse on the left) has the names of MRAS life members. These are individuals who were instrumental in the establishment of the MRAS and those who

have given significant volunteer hours. The Donor Horse (heavy horse in the middle) contains the names of people and families that donated financially to make the Legacy Mural possible. The other two horses in the mural symbolize the spirit of the horse and the rodeo.”

Community, history, and volunteers construct the fabric of this incredible project. Perks and his wife have brilliantly tackled a tremendous task. Their quaint, Okotoks, AB, gallery hosts an impressive display of available pieces and their website is virtual eye-candy for the decorative soul.

The creative energy that the couple shares, exudes from the MRAS piece with precision and authenticity. ~ Kirk Prescott, BAR XP PHOTO

When evaluating the elements found in the mural, the Perks share the following…

THE FOOTHILLS: The Rolling Hills, Buffalo Run, and Rocky Mountains set the backdrop for the mural and pay tribute to this land.

THE FIRST PEOPLE: The three eagle feathers recognize the three Indigenous groups of the Foothills area who seasonally traveled the Morley Trail, along the base of the Foothills. These were the Blackfoot, Blood and Stoney Nakoda Nations.

COMMUNITY & FAMILY: The people holding hands across the front of the mural honor the foundation on which the track was built and how it continues to thrive today.

AGRICULTURE: Represented by the tractor, grain bins and windmill, the Millarville Fair is a chance to show off the best agriculture, cooking and handmade crafts. This event will continue to serve as a form of education for non-agricultural families and awards those who participate.

RANCHING: The cattle drive, cowboy and cow-calf pair represent the founding families of the MRAS and a big part of our history. It also leads into the love of horses and equine events that celebrate these activities.

HORSE RACING: The MRAS started as a horse racetrack. The annual races were a time of celebration that pulled the community together.

RODEO: The Millarville Rodeo has been an important MRAS event for many years. The rodeo is a time for ranch families to test their skills against the best livestock. It is exciting to see everyday skills put into a competition format and be celebrated.

HEAVY HORSE: Agriculture and farming wouldn’t exist in the Foothills without the help of the heavy horse. This noble breed made cultivation possible for all our founding families. The heavy horse pull competition has always been an exciting part of the Millarville Fair. The heavy horse was chosen to represent all the donors who stepped up to make this mural possible.

THE SPIRIT OF THE HORSE: Many equine events take place on the MRAS grounds every year.

We wanted to acknowledge our love of the horse in any form.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 11

Outwest

EXTREME COWGIRLS!

TWO ALBERTA COWGIRLS HEADED down to compete in the Extreme Cowboy Association (EXCA) 2021 World Championships in Texas this past November. Novice Rider, Virginia Kelly and 11-year-old Young Guns rider, Tori Ammirati represented Canada while competing alongside over 250 other competitors for a world title.

Extreme Cowboy Alberta rider Virginia Kelly and her seven-year-old mare, IndyAnna Jones (Indy) celebrated an undefeated season this year, while fellow EXCA rider Tori and her seven-year-old gelding Maverick won the Young Guns Hi-Point award. Watching these teams compete together over obstacles is a testament to trust between horse and rider, hard work and courage.

Indy was originally rescued as a yearling.

“I kind of acquired her through the SPCA and she was wild as the wind – completely unhandled, couldn’t touch her and so I kind of had to figure out a way to really get to bond with her and get her confidence up.

And that’s kind of where the obstacles came into play,” said Kelly.

Kelly has done all of Indy’s training her-

self, while being a mom of two; Blake (age seven) and Cooper (age five) and juggling her side hustle V.A. Leather Co. “Oh gosh, my husband Joel is my biggest supporter! He was the one who was pushing me from the start. Telling me ‘You, know how to do this, you know how to work with her (Indy), and you guys are such a team!

You need to go for it.’ Anytime some competition or training came up, he pushed me out the door,” she relayed. It was only after a few EXCA judges asked Kelly if she was going to Texas that she considered it.

After winning Provincial, Regional, Hi-Point and Overall Championships this year it seemed like a good idea. However, theirs was no overnight success as Kelly is quick to admit. Competing in the novice class for four years, they worked extremely hard to improve for this season.

“Last year I was nowhere near the top, so this last winter – you know things, things clicked. We put in a lot of work this past year. I just kept telling myself to put the work in and get the improvements that you want,” she explained.

Ammirati (who travels with her Mom, Jen) had a great first year with Maverick

12 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

STARIZON IMAGES

Tori Ammirati and Maverick negotiating their favourite obstacle the teeter totter.

“Full throttle through the cowboy curtain is super fun as well as super painful”

ABOVE:

after retiring her 28-year-old mare Brandy, who is now teaching her brother Tate to ride. Super excited for Texas, Tori is determined to remember her dad, Ted’s preshow prep talk.

“Dad always says ‘Calm, cool, careful, collected’ and I love fast. So for me it’s, ‘Calm, cool, careful, collected and fast.’”

Asked if she has any advice for other EXCA riders she wisely advises, “Breathe.” ~ Monique Noble

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Outwest THE THIRD WEEK OF NOVEMBER 2021, IS NOT ONE THE people of Abbotsford, BC, will soon forget. On Nov. 12, an atmospheric river that formed in the Pacific Ocean moved onto North America’s west coast and a torrential downpour followed. Then on November 16, flood waters began to rise on the Sumas Prairie and the Barrowtown pump station, faced a surge of water from Washington state’s Nooksack River. More than 600 people were evacuated and several others had to be rescued overnight. As the area is also home to hundreds of farms, it meant that thousands of farm animals met the disaster head on as well.

Brad Mueller owns and operates BNR Electric Ltd. and lives in Yarrow, BC, approximately one kilometre away from the flood water’s edge. Ever since the water started to rise, along with several other caring individuals, Mueller has gone out volunteering, sandbagging and reaching out to the community however possible. As Mueller also owns a 17-foot river boat, he has spent days on the water trying to assist animals in need and the farmers who refuse to abandon them.

“With the situation and no one knowing what to expect, we were out on the valley and checked in with one of the dairy farmers we do electric work for. I told him, ‘Hey, if you need help – call me.’” Mueller relays. “He called the next morning and said, ‘I have water coming up fast!’ The day before, there wasn’t any water at his place.”

The flood ranges in depths across Sumas Prairie. Mueller estimates that some road crossings may be 1.5 feet deep, and other places are as high as eight to nine feet. It varies as the water goes up and down and flows across the valley floor. The destruction the flood has caused is immeasurable and the situation is dire for farmers in the area – those who are underwater and those who are not, but all are cut off from necessary resources.

However, it is people like Mueller who are working tirelessly and are helping to soften the blow, somewhat.

“On one of our first trips out, we went over to a dairy barn that had three to four feet of water inside it. The farmer had loaded all his calves up into a stock trailer, because they were lower in the water and it was the only way to keep their heads above water,” Mueller says.

The crew had to shuffle the calves from the trailer (which was by then, water-logged inside the barn) onto boats, to take them to dry land.

“I jumped on another guy’s boat, to help hold the calves in place, so they didn’t jump over the side. They’re young and were lower in the water as the water came up, so they don’t have the body fat on them to keep them warm. We pulled them in the boats and some, we put halters on them to hold them in place,” Mueller states.

At first, the rescue crew used a boat and a dingy to remove the calves, but the tide of the flood waters made things difficult. After a while, the crew had to resort to just the boat.

“On the third trip, we gave up on the raft and just used the boat. But we got them all out! There was about 50 calves. Now they’re spread out at different farms across the Fraser Valley. Whoever had room, took them in.” ~ Jenn Webster 14 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

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e

Western insider

FACEBOOK FEEDBACK Recently on WHR Facebook we re-posted Sarah Gabby’s post:

Just a Sorrel...

Nothing blows my mind more than people in the horse world saying “Just a plain sorrel” or in search of posts for people looking for their dream horse and stating, “open to anything of color, just no sorrels.”

What’s a sorrel?...

A sorrel is a horse that has earned his place, not hiding behind or relying on his unique, flashy coat color to make him stand out in the world.

A sorrel is more heart and try than I have ever seen in a horse.

A sorrel is a horse whose value is solely based on substance, ability and mind, not on cosmetics.

A sorrel is red, the color of power.

A sorrel has taught me more than any horse ever has.

A sorrel keeps me as honest as a horseman as he is as a horse.

A sorrel is a horse that should never be underestimated.

A sorrel is a horse that chose me.

A sorrel is the one horse on the property you couldn’t buy from me even if you caught me on my worst day.

The greatest horse I have ever owned is just a sorrel Please visit our Facebook page to see all the responses.

WHR Readers echoed these sentiments with more than +160 comments.

Our other Reserve World Champion is 10-Year-Old Clay Hunter from Okotoks, AB, who rode with Zachary Cisco of Scottsdale, AZ, capturing the 3 Class Reserve Champion title in Ranch Sorting. Clay also became the Junior Youth Champion in Team Penning. Clay’s older brother, Chase who is 12-years-old, won third spot in the 10 Elite Team, penning out of 377 teams with Wade Adams and Mike Dewitt.

RESERVE WORLD CHAMPIONS

Several Canadians travelled to Amarillo, Texas, this October 24-30 for the 2021 World Finals Of Team Cattle Penning and Ranch Sorting.

Many made it through four rounds of tough cattle and long days to the Top 10 finals on Friday and Saturday and two went on to become Reserve World Champions! Congratulations to Wade Adams, from Calgary, AB, riding with Niki Saggione, from New Boston, TX – Reserve Champions in the Open Ranch Sorting.

TOP: Wade Adams, from Calgary and Niki Saggione, New

Boston, TX, Reserve Open Ranch Sorting Champions.

Zachary Cisco of Scottsdale, AZ with Clay Hunter from Okotoks, AB, 3 Class Reserve Champions in Ranch Sorting.

ABOVE:

16 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

WOMAN OF INFLUENCE!

A big congrats goes to Connie DownCicoria, Calgary, AB, who was recently announced as a 2021 Western Finalist in RBC’S Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards! This is the premier national awards program celebrating the achievements of the most successful in this inspiring group. For 29 years, the awards have shone a spotlight on Canada’s most accomplished and impactful women who have demonstrated excellence — from economic growth to social change, from local to global reach, across multiple sectors.

Cicoria is the Founding Shareholder & Exec Chair of the board of AERIUM Analytics. She is also one of the driving forces behind the MTE Logistix Canadian Spectacular and a dedicated cutting enthusiast.

INGLE

Jall the

KRYSTINA LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY

WAY

Our western style guide for the happiest of holidays!

Shop local with the following gift ideas, and get the recipe for a new family-approved celebration meal.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 17

Western Foodie

18 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

istmas r h c

BEEF

SHANKS

If you’re up for a non-traditional Christmas dinner this year, this iconic dish is bound to become your next, family-approved classic.

Slow-cooked to perfection, this showstopping platter of beef is topped with a glaze reduction, vegetables and dainty truffle oil fries, then served on a bed of smoked blue cheese polenta. It’s a meal so filling and delicious that you may never go back to turkey dinner again.

BY MIKE EDGAR & JENN WEBSTER

T

here are two ways to obtain the off-cut of beef that is desirable for this recipe. Firstly, you can ask your local butcher for a whole beef shank tied, or you can have the butcher cut the meat into two to three-inch thick pieces. Cutting them into smaller pieces makes them easier to handle. For this recipe however, we cooked the shanks whole.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 19

INGREDIENTS

2 Whole Beef Shanks, Frenched and Tied.

3 Carrots, Chopped 4 Celery Stocks, Chopped 2 Onions, Chopped 5 Garlic Cloves 250 Grams Fresh Ginger, Chopped 750 mls Red Wine 5 L Beef Stock 5 Thyme Sprigs 4 Rosemary Sprigs Salt Ground Black Pepper 2 Cups Brown Sugar

METHOD

In a large frying pan or Dutch oven heat canola oil on high heat. Generously season the shanks with salt and pepper. Sear all sides of the shanks and transfer to a large pan or Dutch oven. Add carrots, celery, onion, garlic and ginger to the pan you seared the beef in.

Sauté until the vegetables start to brown. Add half the wine and scrape all the brown bits off the bottom of the pan. Add the rest of the wine, beef stock, brown sugar, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil and then pour into the pan with the shanks. Cover and braise at 325-degrees Fahrenheit for five hours or until tender.

When shanks are done, strain out half the braising liquid into a separate pot to make a glaze. Leave the shanks in the remaining liquid and cover to keep warm. Reduce the strained braising liquid on medium heat, until it reaches a syrup consistency. To serve the shanks, you will need help to prop them up on a platter. You can use your favourite holiday accompaniments. For this recipe, we used a smoked blue cheese polenta, balsamic

20 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

roasted shallots, roasted squash and grilled bok choy.

Firstly, on the bottom of your platter, pour the polenta down as a base. Then, arrange half of the vegetables around the platter and gently place the shanks in the center – moving any vegetables around as needed, to aid the shanks in standing straight up.

Drizzle the glaze all over the shanks. Scatter the remaining vegetables on the platter, and you are ready to impress your guests!

SMOKED BLUE CHEESE POLENTA 6 Cups Chicken Stock 2 Cups35% Cream 2 Cups Coarse Corn Meal 60 gm Butter 200 gm Smoked Blue Cheese 1 Cup Grated Parmesan 1 Tbsp. Kosher Salt 1 Tsp. Ground Black Pepper ¼ Cup Parsley, Chopped ¼ Cup Chives, Chopped

BOK CHOY

Cut bok choy in halves. Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place bok choy flat-side down on a very hot grill and sear for 30 seconds, ensuring each one gets a really nice grill mark. Flip and sear for another 30 seconds and they are ready to eat.

METHOD

Bring stock, cream, salt and pepper to a boil, add the corn meal and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring constantly until thick and creamy.

Remove from heat and stir in butter, blue cheese, parmesan, chive, and parsley and you are ready to serve.

BALSAMIC ROASTED SHALLOTS

10 Large Whole Shallots, Peeled and Halved 3 Tbsp. Butter 2 Tbsp. Honey 4 Tbsp. Balsamic Vinegar 1 Tbsp. Fresh Thyme Leaves Salt and Pepper Pre-heat oven to 400-degrees Fahrenheit.

Melt butter in an oven-safe frying pan over medium heat. Add honey, balsamic, and thyme. Stir to combine. Add your shallots flat side down, sprinkle with salt and pepper and roast in oven for 20 to 25min.

ROASTED SQUASH

2 Kabocha Squash, Seeded and Cut into Wedges (leaving the skin on) 2 Tbsp. Olive Oil 2 Tbsp. Butter Salt and Pepper Pre-heat oven to 400-degreesFahrenheit.

Heat oil, and butter in a cast iron pan.

Place squash in the pan and sprinkle with salt and pepper. After the squash has a nice golden brown sear on one side, flip them and put in the oven to roast for approximately 20 minutes, flipping every five minutes.

About the Chef: Mike Edgar graduated from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology in the Culinary Arts. He stayed in Calgary, AB working at some of the city’s top restaurants. In 2007, he opened his own restaurant in Calgary’s east end. After eight years of being a chef there, Edgar decided to take a step back and left the industry to spend more time with his son. His son has now expressed an interest in learning his father’s skills and in horses simultaneously.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 21

nderful Time of the Year o W t s o M ! he T

er rH Fo

Our gift for you is this wonderful collection of gift ideas for under the tree, under the saddle, in the barn and in your belly.

As always, we are all for spreading some local cheer with amazing gifts for you and yours.

BY MONIQUE NOBLE

PUT A RING IN IT

What’s a gift without a box to put it in? For a little extra western flair this holiday season, wrap your special someone’s gift in this extra special jewelry case available at Classic Rodeo Boutique (DeWinton, Alberta). It’s the store that has a little bit of everything for everyone! $250. @classicrodeo on Facebook

STAY COZY

Wrap yourself or a loved one in the warmth of a 100% silk wild rag from Brown Creek this winter.

Starting at $55 www.browncreekwildrags.com

TOWEL SETS

These amazing towel sets are a great way to add some western flair to any décor, a set of three towels includes one bath towel, one hand towel and one face cloth. Deliciously soft and fully washable, these medium thick towels are a quick and easy way to change up a bathroom and add a splash of on point style. Find them on Facebook at Starbound Horses and Western gifts – you won’t be disappointed in their huge selection of locally handcrafted baby blankets, jewelry, décor and more. $50 for a set. www.Starboundhorses.ca

22 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

TRULY UNIQUE

Looking for something that is truly special? She’ll love anything from renowned silversmith, Scott Hardy. From custom-made buckles, to jewelry, to flasks or saddle silver, Hardy has the perfect signature piece for your one of a kind. Inquire for pricing. www.scotthardy.com

TEE TIME

These tees and tanks from Saskatchewan entrepreneur, Prairie Girl Couture are the staple she wants this year. Designed in a variety of colours and sizes, all are super soft and comfy. $30-$40 each. prairiegirlcouture.com

ICING FOR HER

SAY WHAT

Gift your bohemian babe this Stellar military jacket emblazoned with a quote from Z. Stardust himself. No gift is ever boring when it comes from Cody & Sioux, one of our favourite local purveyors of all things new west. $144.95. www.codyandsioux.com

Add a little extra sparkle to the tree with treasures from Sweet Iron Silver located in Didsbury, Alberta.

Using Canadian sourced precious metals, Shawna Whiteside handcrafts every piece with artistic western elegance. Gorgeous pre-created items are available, however if you have something more personal in mind, one-of-a-kind heritage pieces that include designs such as a family brand, meaningful designs or nicknames, or even a company logo can be lovingly rendered. sweetiron.com

CUSTOM WINE GLASSES

Festivities mean so much more when done with a personal touch. Customized glassware is a thoughtful and sweet way to honour your loved one’s loved ones. Award-winning Airdrie, Alberta artist and fellow horse lover Marni Koelln can produce your pets on washable glassware, tree ornaments or canvas with photorealistic detail and/or heartwarming humour. Inquire for pricing.

Share your ideas with her at www.marnikoelln.com

FESTIVE CHARCUTERIE

Nothing says Christmas like Charcuterie!

These amazing, locally made boards are almost too pretty to cover up with your favourite delicious delights. But who are we kidding?

They will be emptied quick enough for everyone to marvel at the artistry below!

Below the Bark Designs and Brand it Designs can both be found on Facebook.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 23

Fo rH im

GRAND TOPPER

The holidays just aren’t the same without a great topper, whether you choose a star, a tree and angel or a gorgeous hat from Prairie Wind Hatworks! Located in Pincher Creek, Alberta, they can make a custom hat from the band up or give a current hat a little bit of TLC. Find them on Facebook @prairiewindhatworks2018

SOLE MATES

He’ll get a kick out of a Christmas gift from Alberta Boot Company! Outfitting royalty, movie stars, athletes, public figures, and most importantly – ordinary people from all over the world! Alberta Boot Company has a wide selection of ready-made boots and can also help you create the perfect pair for your sole mate this holiday season. albertaboot.com

OUTDOOR COVER

A NIGHT OUT

A night out is a sweet surprise for anyone. Give a gift that includes great service, a spacious western atmosphere, a fantastic steak and a house-specialty mashed potato wrap.

Silver Slate Steak house by Stavely, Alberta offers high fashion dining in a home-style way. Gift Certificates available at silverslatearena.com 24 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

This Powder River Outfitters collection fleece bonded softshell jacket from Panhandle features a full zipper front, interior wind flap, adjustable cuffs and is water and wind resistant. Perfect for the man who lives in the outdoors. $139.95. www.lammles.com

SOLAR PROTECTION

BEX sunglasses are engineered to stay comfortably on your favourite wrangler’s face. Complementing active lifestyles, every pair is lightweight, polarized durable and designed to look great on everyone.

The company understands that an active lifestyle causes normal wear and tear on the nose pads, which is why each pair of sunglasses comes with a replaceable set. bexsunglasses.com

... a mobile and online boutique COUTURE Use Discount Code WHR10

Custom Denim

Scott Hardy S I LV E R A N D G O L D S M I T H

TAKE A PIECE OF THE WEST WHEREVER YOU GO.

Custom Orders Welcome

Curated Western Fashion Graphic Tees Vintage Pieces

Gift certificates available • prairiegirlcouture@gmail.com Check out Facebook and Instagram to shop our online boutique

BREEDING SEASON is coming up!

Advertise your stallion to a discerning audience. To be competitive in today’s market, it is important to combine electronic media and traditional print media – Western Horse Review can do both for you!

www.scotthardy.com scott@scotthardy.com Studio phone-403-558-2337 scotthardysilversmith

Scott Hardy Silver/Goldsmith

Quality Tack & Western Wear

Authorized dealer of Luxx Saddle pads, Robin Hood, Big D, DuraTech, Kimes Ranch, Kathy’s Show Equipment and more!

January / February Breeding Edition Advertising Deadline: December 22, 2021 advertising@westernhorsereview.com Sally - 403-815-1289 Jenn - 403-861-2609

(403) 350-5491 www.ranchbydesign.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 25

Gi fts o or f t ou di he t na ry

FOR THE TIME-STRAPPED RANCHER

The greatest gift you can give someone is time.

Better Than Home Coin Laundry located in Okotoks, Alberta is a drop-off dry cleaner depot that caters to customers with western roots!

Custom ironing and alterations for cowboys, cowgirls and cowpokes alike. They have designated machines for your pet and horse blankets, saddle pads, Navajo blankets and heavily soiled attire – perfect for those hectic days on the ranch! Leave the heavy cleaning to them.

(403) 938-7788

IMPRESSIVE AMBIENCE

Just in time for the holidays, the all new ROMAL RAIN candles from Shannon Lawlor Galleries are ready for the giving! This thoughtful pairing of leather and Cuban cigars will offer you memories of the West through a luxurious scent, as the candle burns with great ambiance.

Snuggle up and appreciate the sensory delight curated by one of Alberta’s foremost western virtuosos. $45-$70 www.shannonlawlor.com

HEART OF THE HOME

Unique western style area rugs that convey your western style within your home, are like artwork for the floor.

Find a number of interesting shapes and designs at Cody & Sioux.

Inquire for pricing. www.codyandsioux.com

FOR THEIR TUMMY

A gift that embodies the best of Alberta: solid, bold, rich, authentic, and spirited. Alberta Whisky Cakes come heat-sealed and most elegantly packaged, ready for gift giving, and with a lithographed ‘Artist Card’ promoting the work of a local emerging artist. True local spirit and taste in every sense. $40. albertawhiskycake.com 26 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

FOR THOSE WHO HAVE EVERYTHING

Don’t know what to get the people who have everything?

Memberships and subscriptions make wonderful gifts that keep on giving throughout the year and come with a host of benefits for all the people on your gift list.

Support local clubs, publications and your loved one’s passions all with one thoughtful gesture.

THE WINE IS SO DELIGHTFUL

It may be frightful outside, but wine is always delightful! Toast your host or the ones you love most with horse themed wines this holiday season.

Everyone will be trotting up to the bar for another glass of these fun and naturally festive selections of holiday cheer! Find them at your favourite local liquor purveyor.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 27

Cr Co eat mf ur or e ts

MAKE PAY DIRT

Not all gifts are meant to be under a tree! Put a big red bow on Conterra’s EquiGroomer-TR and watch them run (or drive) in circles with excitement! www.conterraindustries.com

FEELIN’ GOOD

EQUI-NUTRITION BOOST

Warm the bellies of your equine friends during colder days with locally-owned and operated. Equiboost Feed and Oil. Flax-based and made with zero soy products, this feed will have your furever friends feeling, looking and performing their best! $55 for a 30-day supply.

Find them on Facebook @equiboost

Spread good cheer and good feels in every way, with Cavallo Pulse Therapy, based out of Cochrane, Alberta. Owner and practitioner, Keely Gibb, travels to her clients to help them feel their best.

Specializing in equine bodywork and PEMF for the performance athlete. Gibb also offers massage therapy, K-Taping, myofascial release as well as stretching and mobilization services for your equine and canine companions. Find her on Facebook @cavallopulsetherapy

BARN DANCE

SHOW-STOPPING PADS

Show-stopping style is always a wise choice when it comes to gift giving and horse lovers. You will find a huge selection of cutting edge show pads, show shirts and other accoutrements at the Ranch by Design shop near Lacombe, Alberta. Luxx show pads are beautiful premium quality blankets made with 100% New Zealand wool. Oversized and just under nine pounds, these saddle pads come in a wide variety of colours and designs. $236.

Online at: ranchbydesign.com 28 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

Why put gifts under a tree when you can put them in a barn? Make dreams come true with Affordable Barns, a company who has been building high quality barns for affordable prices for years! With base pricing starting at only $20,695, all barns come complete with finished 12x12 stalls, and many options to choose from. affordablebarns.com

STORY TIME

KID’S GIFT PACK

The Alberta Equestrian Federation has a ton of great swag for young equestrians, including this super sweet activity pack for horse enthusiasts.

For ages five and up, this set includes an AEF activity book with colouring pages, word puzzles and more, a four-pack of crayons, AEF T-shirt, AEF squishy support horse and other treasures all packaged up in a portable pony back-pack. Your purchase also supports an incredible local club. $21.99. Order online at www.albertaequestrian.com

Curl up with the kids this winter and share a long beloved Albertan tradition together. S is for Stampede is written and illustrated by local talents Jenn Webster and Karen Coe, respectively. Explore the stunning art and insightful writeups of the events, people and animals that define the legendary Calgary Stampede. Topics include the Stampede’s famous founders, legendary rodeo stock, and the one-of-a-kind experience visitors can only garner from the western celebration! $18. www.westernhorsereview.com

fts e i G th forittles L

BABY BOOTIES

For the baby buckaroo, these cute as-can-be, easy on / easy off western Poppets booties will keep their footsies warm and their western style alive. $24.95. lammles.com

visit often...

Horsemanship • Culture • Style

westernhorsereview.com

An Eclectic Boutique with a Western Flare!

DOUBLE D RANCH CHELSEA COLLETTE COLLECTION JUAN ANTONIO JOSEPH RIBKOFF OLD GRINGO BOOTS PENDLETON

A Charitable Equine Organization funding: veterinary colleges and students and other worthwhile equine causes. www.equinefoundation.ca Bob Watson, President 403.378.4323 bob@equinefoundation.ca

403.968.5654 CLASSICRODEOBOUTIQUE.COM NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 29

Good Work

WELDING with Tim Hiller – Iron Arts

BY KIRK PRESCOTT BAR XP PHOTO

Above: : Known as, “The Driving Power of the Prairie

Wind,” this life-size sculpture of a draft is impeccably crafted and beautiful beyond words.

W

ith generations of gritty welding talent behind him, Tim Hiller has taken the art of blacksmithing to a new frontier. At his hand, horseshoes and metal artifacts seamlessly transform into life-like, works of art. Each creation has a story to tell and Hiller, a cowboy craftsman with vision, has the gift of bringing his captivating creations to life.

Based out of Hay Lakes, AB, Hiller has been a welder for most of his life.

When oil field fabrication faded, the spotlight fell on Hiller’s skill with sculpture. He recreated an income with encouragement from family and friends and his passion for blacksmithing took flight. Hiller’s attention to detail is second to none and his creativity is endless. He stands strong in his statement, “We can create anything YOU can imagine and then some.”

From rotating saddle stands to intricate, equine representations, Hiller finds joy in projects of all forms and functions.

While his work varies in size and stature, Hiller’s projects remain unique in comparison and incredibly rich in detail and design.

At home with his sidekicks, Hiller takes five, sharing tales of his great work.

One of Hiller’s first pieces remains his most memorable. As his equine sculpture developed, Hiller’s beloved rope horse, “Twiggy,” a tall, lanky Thoroughbred came to mind. Using only 15 horseshoes, Hiller was able to capture the energy and feel he intended, easily replicating a horse well-known to many in the roping arena.

Recounting a first-reveal of the piece,

30 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

Hiller lamented, “I called Andy up. I wanted to show him something I thought he might like. Never saying anything about the piece, I met him outside his office and showed him. Both of us had owned at least eight or more horses since my horse’s passing. When he held up the piece, he looked at it, rolled it around side to side, looked at me and said, ‘It sure

looks like Twiggy.’ That horse meant a lot to both of us.” Hiller’s beloved, “Twiggy” passed at the age of 32 and his legacy lives-on, in a memorial piece, displayed at Hiller’s ranch.

Hiller’s favourite consignment piece to date, was crafted for a neighbouring farmer. Looking for a birthday gift for his wife, Hiller’s friend gave him free rein on a project that would become a horse running through their garden wall. The birthday surprise was incredibly wellreceived, and the owner called the piece, “Aodhan,” Gaelic for “Little Fire.” Hiller attests that the name is fitting for the energy that exudes from the piece and clearly the art of blacksmithing itself. As in each of Hiller’s pieces, the attention to detail, the movement and the energy in this sculpture are surreal. Even in the dark, splashed with illumination, “Aodhan,” is captivating and beautiful.

Hiller notes that working with metal is the easier and preferential side of his craft.

Blacksmithing has always been a revered hobby and both of his grandfathers were skilled in the trade. Hiller grewup around their forges and the antiques from their lives play an integral role in his process. As for the downside of the business, Hiller defines online marketing as one of his challenges. While his work sells itself, sitting in front of a computer, sharing his work, remains his largest

struggle. Hiller prides himself on quality craftsmanship and finds that word-ofmouth keeps him busy.

In producing a client’s vision, Hiller finds it very effective to meet, in-person where he can gain an understanding of the client’s energy and the intention of the piece. Given an appreciation for the intended space, Hiller is better able to situate the sculpture with precision and develop its presence. Hiller remains grateful for his farrier friends who supply many of his materials. Like his clients, they too are enamoured with his creations

and enjoy seeing his latest masterpiece take shape.

From statement pieces to memorial creations, Hiller is gifted in his trade. He graces tradeshows with his artwork and his website, www.ironarts.ca also showcases his incredible work. Photographs simply do not bring justice to Hiller’s creations. Fancy or functional, each piece is rich in detail and every angle presents a new feel for the energy and movement that is meticulously curated. At home on a horse or on a Harley, Hiller is a handy, hardworking artisan, blessed with vision. WHR

Left: Welding additions to an intricate, iron sculpture.

Top: Hiller would love to hear your thoughts on a name

for this intense, wolf sculpture, purposefully aged to perfection. Above: Bending the finishing touches for a memorial rose piece.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 31

Music West

FINDING HER VOICE Singer-songwriter Jennie Harluk shares her authentic self in her latest emotion-driven singles.

BY PIPER WHELAN PHOTOS BY ISABELLA MORTON

J

ennie Harluk isn’t apologizing for being herself, and this empowering approach shines through her music, making her a bright, young artist to watch.

In her single “Blame It On Me,” released this summer, the Calgary, Alberta-based singer-songwriter declares her authenticity with a depth of emotion in her vocals that belies her age. Harluk’s alt-pop celebration of self-trust and inner confidence is sure to resonate with listeners, just as she knew it was the song she needed when she wrote it.

“In high school I didn’t have a ton of friends, I didn’t totally fit into the crowd or anything, so when I graduated I was in this little bit of a lonely state. I was really tired of friendships and relationships that just haven’t been super healthy or a mutual, give-and-take relationship,” says Harluk. “I needed an anthem of being unapologetic and not saying sorry and apologizing to people for your happiness.”

Expressing herself through music has been a lifelong passion for Harluk, whose father is also a musician. “Both my parents absolutely love music, so I grew up listening to all kinds and hearing my dad sing,” she says. “I’ve been singing as long as I can remember.”

She’s been immersed in the musical lifestyle from a young age, beginning to write her own songs at the age of 10 and first recording music at 13. “It’s just kind of been a constant slow-build

throughout my childhood.”

The decision to pursue music professionally came early for Harluk, who refers to life as a musician as “second nature” for her, though it didn’t come without doubts when adulthood beckoned.

“When I was in grade 12 and everyone was filling out their applications for university and their resumes, and I wasn’t because I was choosing to do music and not go to school, and I remember having quite a bit of anxiety over it,” she recalls.

“But now a year and a half out, I’m so happy that that’s the choice I made.”

While her earlier musical influences tended towards country artists like Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood and Shania Twain, she’s currently inspired by singersongwriters such as Finneas and Conan Gray, and she admires how Taylor Swift blends genres in her music. “I still really, really value the storytelling aspect of country music, and I think that I take that into my songwriting now… the depth and the realness and rawness of lyrics.”

This focus on the power of storytelling is evident in Harluk’s songwriting, and she enjoys the challenge of conveying a vivid, impactful narrative within the short confines of a song. “I’ve always loved writing, even story writing in school,” she says. “I think that it’s a really cool thing to be able to paint a picture in so little words.”

At times in her songwriting process, she’ll refer to the list of inspiration she

32 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

keeps with her at all times, adding words, objects, colours and textures that appeal to her. “Sometimes if I’m needing inspiration I go to that list, but usually one line will pop up in my head and I kind of just go off from there.”

Although Harluk’s sessions with cowriters and producers have taken place over Zoom calls for more than a year now, she enjoys this collaborative process. The experience of writing “Blame It On Me,” for instance, flowed naturally for Harluk and her co-writer, Toronto-based producer Jackson Willows, after they shelved a different song that wasn’t working.

“We weren’t feeling like it was clicking, and both of us are people who (believe) creativity shouldn’t be forced. If art is forced, then it’s not as meaningful,” she explains. They decided to write a new song during their session, and their efforts paid off.

“I think we wrote it in 45 minutes, maybe an hour, because it just spilled out,” she continues. “Then we got into another session just to tweak a few things with (singer-songwriter and producer) Joseph of Mercury, and it was off to the races from there.”

While “Blame It On Me” is perfect for dancing and singing along with, the personal nature of the song gives it its depth and resonance. “It’s a super fun, bumping song, and I think it’s a vibe and makes people tap their toes, but at the same

time it has an emotional drive to it, and I think it’s something that a lot of people can relate to.”

Harluk’s next single, “The Fool,” released in October, has a similar impactful relatability to it. “It’s a driving song, it has an upbeat tempo musically, but it has a really hard emotional punch,” she says.

“The Fool” is about how the well-meaning words of others don’t exactly soothe the sting of having your heart broken by someone who treated you badly. “People are saying the cliché, make-you-feel-better quotes, like ‘it’s their loss’ or ‘they don’t know what they’re missing,’ and while that may be true, you still got dumped.”

Up next, Harluk plans to continue writing songs and releasing singles in the near future, and she’s looking forward to the possibility of recording an EP in the spring. “I’m just excited to keep sharing content on Instagram and my platforms, sharing my music and the behind-thescenes of the process and connecting with people through it,” she says.

Beyond her music, she taps into her creativity through her online boutique, Little Willow, and through creating the digital marketing content, photography and videography for her music social media platforms, fields she finds particularly intriguing.

She’s also excited about the gradual return of opportunities to perform live.

“Honestly, it feels like you’re right back at

home,” she says of slowly getting back to in-person gigs, experiences in which she relishes the connection that happens in real time with the audience.

Harluk’s love for connecting with people through her songs is unmistakable as she discusses what she hopes her music means to listeners. “Personally, I would hope that they take away what they need because that’s why I write my songs, too. I write them for what I need,” she explains.

She wants listeners to feel whatever the music evokes in them, “whether it’s to feel like someone else gets them, or give them a way to phrase or understand words they

“I still really, really value the storytelling aspect of country music, and I think that I take that into my songwriting now…the depth and the realness and rawness of lyrics.” - Jennie Harluk

maybe can’t string together themselves, or maybe it’s just a feeling, or maybe it’s just music and they like listening to it,” she says.

“I think that music is so interpretive, and one person may feel one emotion towards a song, and another person will feel a completely different one because that’s the way that their heart reads it, and I think that’s the really beautiful thing about music.” WHR

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 33

Homes West

BARN BLISS

The classic country vibe of this barn, with its bespoke design and custom finishes throughout, makes it more of a retreat than just a place to simply house horses.

BY JENN WEBSTER PHOTOS BY DINA SUTHERLAND PHOTOGRAPHY

W

hen Lisa Otto decided to build a small horse barn on the family acreage, she channeled all her design dreams into a charming and modern space for horses. She wanted all the character of the country to shine through the new build, along with a flair for rustic luxury.

She needed her horses to be comfortable and ensure the building allowed its owners the opportunity to maximize their chore efficiency. On top of all that, Otto desired an airy, bright and welcoming place that was more than just a barn.

When searching for builders who could help them get the done job during the pandemic, Otto admits she wasn’t sure if she ended up finding Denco West – or if they found her. Owned by Dennis Martin near Brooks, AB, Denco West is

run by Martin and his sons. Some jobs are pre-built in their shop at home and then hauled over, while others have to be built directly on the client’s property. The majority of Otto’s barn was constructed on her property south of Calgary, AB, but some things like the detailed cupolas were crafted in the Denco West shop.

“It was a like a big barn raising!” Otto exclaims. “The whole process was amazing.

Dennis and his sons were amazing. They were so awesome and so humble. Wood is their thing. And, we caught it before the price of wood increased. So we got the lumber for cheaper!”

Concrete was poured in October 2020 and the Denco West crew began framing the following month. They continued to build all through the winter and the barn was ready for horses to move in by March 2021.

34 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

“They drove from Brooks every day to work on our barn. The oldest son was 21 and the youngest was still in school, but he would come work here when he wasn’t in school,” Otto explains. “They didn’t work during the weekends, because that’s their family time. But they kept going until it was done! They were here every day and they worked so hard.”

BRIDLED ELEGANCE

The finished product includes a fivestall stable that excludes clean lines and comfort. Each stall is equipped with a dutch door that opens up into a spacious paddock, allowing for easy turn-out. A large alleyway runs through the middle, while the front part of the barn possesses a wash bay, a tack room, a feed room and storage space. At each end of the barn,

“sunshine doors” that roll up allow for a lot of natural light to brighten up the area. The doors came from Action Door Services in Calgary, AB. White-washed wood walls adorn the interior of the barn, creating its bright, airy atmosphere and continue up into the interior, peaked ceiling. Modern light fixtures can be found throughout the stable, many of them with exposed bulbs and an industrial feel for an ultramodern look. However in the main alleyway, a candle style wagon wheel chandelier greets visitors as a spectacular statement lighting feature upon entry.

Industrial wall sconces sit above the stalls for extra lighting. And the tack

FINISHING TOUCHES

Aside from all the human luxuries and sleek interior design of the barn (did we mention that both the bathroom and the tack room have sliding barn doors..?), the Otto barn is additionally packed with

room boasts a bulb pendant fixture that features a little more than bare bulbs suspended from cords wrapped around a wood bar, but its minimalistic design gives the room a big finish.

Otto says the tack room often doubles as their “social space.” With a fridge, a cozy sofa and ample space, it’s easy to see why the room could be so. Aside from the tack hanging on the walls, an industrial metal console table rests in the middle as a place for saddle pads, boots and other equipment.

Recently Otto hosted a bridal shower in the barn and the console table was draped with a tablecloth and served as the water, wine and champagne serving

area for guests.The alleyway was large enough to host several shower guests, side tables, chairs and a massive balloon archway.

“We did a Kentucky Derby theme and it was so fun! I realized then that it’s not just a barn – this could be a perfect party place!”

Otto was also recently asked to host a fashion photoshoot for local fashion designer, Malika Rajani. The brand focuses on ethically-made leathers that celebrate art and style and the Otto barn was the perfect place to showcase the newest 2021 fashions, including a lot of chic fringe near Stampede time.

creature comforts. For one, the concrete floor in the barn is heated, allowing for an energy-efficient way to provide the equines inside with even and consistent warmth. On top of that layer of flooring

are interlocking mats, both in the stalls and in the alleyway.

Originally, Otto had considered purchasing pre-built stall packages for her stall walls but Martin was confident

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 35

LEFT: The Otto Family. BELOW: The tack room also serves as

a quaint social space.

he and his crew could build what she wanted in his shop. Opting for a European stall front design that featured high side walls and an open front, Otto wanted each horse to be able to stick its head out the front (without coming too close to its neighbor). Martin met those demands and carefully crafted each stall with matching white boards and black metal, to stay within the main colour palette of the barn.

The Dutch doors on the backs of each stall were purchased from System Equine and one of the only details farmed out to another company.

“They’re so beautiful and I’m glad we went that route,” says Otto. “I don’t even have to bring horses in through the main doors to get them into their stalls again. I just bring them up through the paddock and dutch doors, back into their stalls.

And we turn out by opening their stalls at the back and away they go! There’s no dirtying up the main alleyway or barn floor. Plus, on rainy days, the horses can stay in but still have their heads out.”

In front of the barn sits a 180-foot x 100-foot riding sand arena. The outdoor arena was constructed by Pettersen Contracting in nearby Aldersyde, AB, as were the paddocks at the back of the barn.

Black Flex Fencing from System Equine keeps the horses safely confined to their paddocks. The fencing looks like wood but is actually 12.5-gauge double-coated high tensile wires and can be equipped 36 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

TOP: The cupolas were custom-designed by Denco West, according to inspiration Lisa Otto found in photos.

MIDDLE: The three Otto horses comfortable in their stalls.

BOTTOM: Dutch doors have not only added to the ambience of the barn, they have also increased chore efficiency.

with a hot wire. Otto chose the fencing because it requires very little maintenance, looks great and is one of the most durable fencing products available.

The final touches on the barn were a pair of cupolas that Otto describes as “the icing on the cake.”

“The cupolas were built by Dennis and his sons in their shop. I showed them a picture of what I wanted and they built them exactly the way I wanted!

They matched the stain and got the weathervanes for me and everything was hand-crafted!” she explains.

The barn also boasts a matching hay shed and side caddy. Inside, three horses currently make the new stable their home.

This includes two Warmbloods, one of which is a hunter and one is a jumper. A palomino, three-year-old Quarter Horse, reining prospect takes up the third stall.

“Our daughter is 21,” says Otto. “She’s coming home next week as she currently attends the University of Victoria for her Biology degree. She wants to get into vet school and she’s a hunter/jumper. I myself prefer dressage. But my daughter wanted a horse to do cattle drives and such with – but I’ll tell ya, compared to the Warmbloods, this one is so sweet!”” WHR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 37

Equi-health io

WINTER LAMINITIS

It’s a phrase that would send a chill down most horse owners’ backs. But, what exactly is it?

BY ALEESHA HARRIS “Winter laminitis is not a disease in itself. Cold alone has not been linked to laminitis,” Dr. Marielle St. Laurent, of Paton Martin Veterinary Services in Langley, BC, explains. “However, there are some reasons why horses could get laminitis specifically in the winter months.”

Dr. St. Laurent points to the shift from softer foundations during the warmer months to the hard, frozen ground of the winter season as a key contributor to increased soreness in horses. A common term in horse health, “road founder,” which refers to the onset of laminitis linked to hard concussions to the hooves, can further be utilized in order to understand the term.

Essentially, “winter laminitis” refers to the onset of road founder, but from climate-related ground hardness rather than poor footing alone.

“Constantly being on hard frozen

ground could contribute to this disease,” Dr. St. Laurent says. “Not working on hard ground constantly is also imperative.”

Laminitis is a disease that causes foot pain in horses. It usually presents as a horse taking short strides and having trouble turning, Dr. St. Laurent explains.

Acute signs, occurring within the first 72 hours, also can include hot feet, increased digital pulses and — when severe — refusal to walk. Severely affected horses will often lean back in order to put weight on their heels in an attempt to relieve the pressure on the front of the hooves.

“When it’s more chronic, usually we will notice an abnormal hoof capsule shape, often with horizontal lines or a dished appearance,” Dr. St. Laurent says.

“They typically have very flat feet and farriers will notice abnormalities in the white line.”

38 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

By the time a farrier sees abnormalities though, the problem has been occurring for quite some time.

“Laminitis is often viewed as this very severe very painful disease, but that isn’t always the case. People are often surprised when they are told that their horse has or had an episode of laminitis and they haven’t noticed a problem themselves,” Dr. St. Laurent says. “Horses can have subtle or mild laminitis episodes. Some of them go unnoticed by owners because they are not severe and only last a day or two.

“If owners recognize mild episodes, they can test to try and determine what is triggering it and hopefully prevent more severe episodes in the future.”

As with many equine ailments, preexisting health conditions can contribute to the onset of the disease. Laminitis, Dr. St. Laurent says, can affect all breeds, from Miniatures to Drafts.

Doug Sapergia ABOVE: When laminitis occurs to the point of coffin bone rotation, the hoof wall separates from the plantar cushion and can cause separation of the white line – or a condition known as “seedy toe.” The hoof in this picture has additionally experienced sole abscesses, also caused by the rotation. BELOW: Horses can have subtle or mild laminitis episodes.

Some of them go unnoticed by owners because they are not severe and only last a day or two. By the time a farrier sees abnormalities though, the problem has been occurring for quite some time.

Clix Photography

“The main predisposing factors are insulin resistance and Cushing’s disease,” Dr. St. Laurent says. “Any very sick horse with what we call toxemia is also predisposed to it.”

Certain medications, such as steroids, have also been linked to laminitis, according to the veterinarian. However, it is believed that in many of these cases, the horses had a predisposed underlying factor, as well.

“For example, a horse had mild Cushing’s disease that was not causing laminitis on its own but coupled with steroid treatment it might trigger a laminitic episode,” Dr. St. Laurent explains.

For horses where insulin resistance is a factor, there can be additional concerns linked to cold weather and the onset of laminitis.

“Frozen grass also has a high sugar content, and this can trigger laminitis in horses that are insulin resistant,” Dr. St. Laurent says.

A horse’s overall body weight and body condition can play a major role in the potential for developing laminitis.

“Most insulin resistant horses that I see are severely overweight,” Dr. St. Laurent says, adding that some skinny horses can also be insulin resistant.

With weight appearing to play an important role in the development of the condition, Dr. St. Laurent says prevention is an important way to avoid any laminitic incidents.

“All horses should maintain an appropriate body condition score and avoid being overweight,” she says.

“Regular exercise also helps to maintain not only an appropriate weight, but is also believed to be helpful in regulating blood sugars and insulin.”

Tests can be done to see whether a horse is in fact, insulin resistant. Horses in their late teens and older can also be tested for Cushing’s Disease in order to make a diagnosis before an onset of clinical signs occurs, Dr. St. Laurent says.

Because, when it comes to laminitis, early detection is essential.

“Severe cases where there is severe rotation of the coffin bone are less likely to recover,” Dr. St. Laurent says. “If we can treat horses before that happens, we have a much better chance at keeping them sound and happy.” WHR

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 39

CANADA’S TRENCH WARRIOR

PRIVATE ALEXANDER DECOTEAU

Born November 19, 1887, on the Red Pheasant Indian Reserve south of Battleford, Saskatchewan, he died 20 days before his 30th birthday. A product of residential schooling, he rose like a phoenix from the ashes of inequity to become one of western Canada’s most celebrated heroes.

Over a century later, we pay tribute to a young man whose dream was to be a great warrior. Private Alexander Decoteau’s spirit continues to run, sprinting the front lines of truth and reconciliation and breaking the barriers of injustice.

BY DEBBIE MACRAE ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF MEDIA RELATIONS UNIT, EDMONTON POLICE SERVICE

A

lex Decoteau was threeyears-old when his father Peter, was murdered. Metis, his father had participated in the Battle of Cutknife in 1885 alongside Chief Pihtokahanapiwiyin (Chief Poundmaker). He died in 1890, while working as an agent of the Indian Department, and Alexander was left fatherless. His Cree mother, Marie Wuttunee, was unable to support him, and was left with no choice but to install him in the Battleford Industrial Residential school.

Decoteau excelled in school and particularly, in sports. He utilized every opportunity to participate in boxing, cricket baseball, soccer and running. When he finished school, he worked as a farm labourer, working with the animals, and then moved on to Edmonton, AB, in 1909 to work as a blacksmith in his brother-in-law’s shop.

After working at the Latta Shoeing Company for two years, he gave up his forge for the force, joining the Edmonton City Police in 1911, and becoming

Canada’s first Indigenous police officer. In a sequence of many firsts, he would also become one of their first motorcycle patrolmen.

He continued to excel in the athletic department. He placed second in the onemile running race at Fort Saskatchewan, AB in 1909, winning his next competition, a five-mile race, with a time of 28 minutes and 41 seconds. He would go on to set a new five-mile record at the Mayberry Cup the same year, with a time of 27 minutes and 45 seconds. Whether it be a halfmile, one mile, five mile or greater race, Decoteau would often compete and win in several competitions on the same day. He won so consistently that trophies were permanently awarded to him, eliminating the formality of having him compete.

On Christmas Day in Calgary, 1910, Decoteau ran the Calgary Herald - 9.98 kilometer road race in a record time of 34.19.25 minutes, leading a field of 15 runners over the entire course. The Edmonton Journal recorded, “The race was the great-

40 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

est event of its kind ever held in Alberta and from the start until the three-mile post the streets were congested by thousands of people and automobiles and (horse-drawn) rigs.” He was presented with a medal valued at $80 and the Herald Cup to keep for a year. Every time he entered the race he won it, and the cup was permanently presented to him in 1915.

Between 1912 and 1915, Decoteau became a running phenomenon. He won the ten-mile race at Canada’s pre-Olympic Trials in Fort Saskatchewan in exactly one hour less one second. He cramped up during the 10,000-metre race and dropped out, but won the 5,000 metre event, influencing the Canadian Olympic Committee to order a new race. Decoteau set a new Dominion record of 15:27.4 and went on to compete at the Olympics in Stockholm, Sweden, placing second in the 5,000-metre race and six in the finals. He was Alberta’s first Indigenous Olympic athlete, and the only Albertan on Team Canada.

Decoteau’s career was dedicated to his fa-

OPPOSITE PAGE: A medal belonging to Decoteau and the pocket watch given to him by King George V. The watch was stolen from his body following his death in 1917 and then remarkably, recovered and returned to his mother in Edmonton.

THIS PAGE:

Alex Decoteau stands with many of his trophies.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 41

Sergeant Decoteau on duty with the Edmonton Police Force.

ther’s memory. As Canada’s first AboriginalCanadian police officer, his challenges were many, yet his perseverance rewarded him with the rank of Sergeant in 1914. Before the First World War broke out, he was head of the West End Edmonton Police Office.

Not only was he dedicated to his father, he was also devoted to his mother. In a show of love and gratitude, Decoteau once lost a race, deliberately placing second, in order to win the second prize.

His mother, Marie was tremendously fond of jigging and fiddle music. First prize for the race was a medal, but second prize was a new violin. Arranging with his cousin, George, who often competed with him, Decoteau and his cousin decided they would fix the race. George would win the medal, and Alex would place second – so he could take the fiddle home to his mother, and he did.

Following the onset of the Great War in 1914, Alex resigned from the police force and joined the Canadian Army. He trained at Camp Sarcee, in Calgary, AB. Whether he was seeking to establish his status in his Cree culture as an equal to his father, or simply to fulfill his sense of civic duty and patriotism, Decoteau joined the Canadian Expeditionary Force, initially serving with the 202nd Infantry Battalion, (Edmonton Sportsman’s Battalion) before transferring to the 49th, in May of 1917. His distinctive markings in-

The Edmonton Police released a comic book called the Alex Decoteau Legacy of Heroes as part of a series of comics chronicling Edmonton’s police service history.

cluded a tattoo on his left arm – later speculated by family descendants, to be eagle feathers.

While stationed overseas, he entered and ran multiple races for service personnel.

In England, he won a race for which the trophy could not be found. King George V, was suitably impressed such that he

42 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

presented Decoteau with his own gold pocket watch – a treasure he carried with him even on the day he died. He entered another race, arriving to discover it was not a footrace, but a bicycle race. In consistent form, he simply borrowed a bicycle and proceeded to win that race, as well.

Sadly, it would be Decoteau’s exceptional athleticism which would become his Achilles heel.

During the First World War, athletic soldiers were engaged for trench warfare - to “run” between the trenches, communicating important dispatches or relating advancing positions during battles to higher officers on what was evolving on the battlefield. The Western Front, included a network of trenches over a 1,000 kilometers long, stretching across Belgium and northern France.

Renowned athletes, including Olympians, Tom Longboat (an Onondaga from the Six Nations of the Grand River), and Alexander Decoteau, delivered messages between front lines and their senior officers at headquarters. The danger for these men was exponentially heightened as they left the relative shelter and safety of the trenches.

On October 30th, 1917, Decoteau ran his last race, killed in action by a sniper at Passchendaele as he ran the gauntlet of death. It was reported that his watch of gold was taken from his body, and then

remarkably, recovered and returned to his mother in Edmonton.

Ironically, Chief Pihtokahanapiwiyin (Poundmaker’s) body was similarly plundered and stripped of his Treaty 6 medal after his death. That medal has also since been recovered and returned to its home at the Red Pheasant Reserve – the birthplace of Alex Decoteau.

Decoteau is buried in Passchendaele’s New British Cemetery, and in 1985, the Edmonton police, family members and the Red Pheasant Cree organized ceremonies and a powwow to return Decoteau’s spirit back to Canada.

Decoteau’s beginnings were humble, yet his impact is legendary. The Edmonton Police honour him with an annual three-kilometer run called the Alex Decoteau Run for school children as part of National Aboriginal History Month.

They have released a comic book called the Alex Decoteau Legacy of Heroes as part of a series of comics chronicling Edmonton’s police service history.

In 2004, his great-niece, Izola Mottershead wrote a biography of his life.

Charlotte Cameron, a former teacher in Edmonton, wrote a one-act play for youngsters, entitled, Running: The Alex Decoteau Story. And most recently, the Downtown Edmonton Community League has honoured him with a park, and a sculpture by Toronto artist Pierre Poussin, entitled Esprit.

Historian Timothy Winegard wrote, “The most significant benefit of Aboriginal peoples’ war service was interaction between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people, which was not common in general Canadian society prior to the war.

“By serving alongside Aboriginal soldiers, Canadian soldiers came to better understand Aboriginal people, and to overcome many negative stereotypes.”

It has taken over a hundred years, but Decoteau continues to ‘run the trenches’ – and bridge the trench of communication between our nations. Within the homage to his spirit, he continues his commitment to public service with humility and integrity, and seeks to deliver a message of peace. WHR

Alexander Decoteau ran the ultimate race for freedom, and paid the ultimate price for his service.

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TRIUMPHANT RETURN The Canadian Spectacular committee worked through tricky times to ensure a quality aged cutting event was once again, hosted in Canada and paid out over $177,000 to competitors.

BY JENN WEBSTER PHOTOS BY KRYSTINA LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY

The third annual MTE Logistix Canadian Spectacular returned this past September 21-26, 2021, to Silverslate Arena near Nanton, AB. The cutting horse limited aged event had its challenges in making its comeback this year, but with an increased payout and a boatload of happy contestants, the 2021 edition of the show was a triumphant success.

Show organizer Connie Cicoria of Calgary, AB, relays that considering the very strict regulations they were put under this year, it was amazing how well the event did. Challenges included finding double-vaccinated judges and requiring contestants to show proof of vaccination or negative Covid-19 tests, prior to exiting their vehicles and entering the facility. The show committee worked diligently prior to the event and during the event dates to keep people showing and having fun, keep cutting alive in Canada in 2021 and offer a place for limited aged horses to show.

It was not without personal sacrifice, however. After realizing how difficult it would be to find appropriate judges, Cicoria had to ask her own trainer to card the aged event portion of the show. That meant her own family’s horses would not be allowed to compete.

“We told everyone, the show must go on!” says Cicoria. “So that’s what we did.”

In addition to the aged classes, the Canadian Spectacular show committee made the decision to host a weekend event this year as well. The weekend classes were National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA), Alberta Cutting Horse Association (ACHA) and Canadian Cutting Horse Association (CCHA) approved. There were two shows hosted over two days that offered lower entry fees

Johnny Lukacs and Reybellious and jackpot classes – and aggregate coolers sponsored by Robin Hay, were provided to all the champions. All in all, the 2021 show was a victory, at a time when producing a western performance event wasn’t easy.

The following are our interviews with some of the show’s biggest winners.

OPEN FUTURITY CHAMPIONS Johnny Lukacs & Reybelious

The Open Futurity, sponsored by the Lorrnel Group saw Johnny Lukacs of Olds, AB, ride Reybelious to the win. Sired by Metallic Rebel and out of What the Hal, this little mare better known as “Lilly” has had a great year.

“I bought her from Charlotte Christensen as a long yearling,” says Lukacs. “I started her in January of her two-year-old year and she was a little firecracker at the beginning – she liked to run off! She has always been a

44 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

pleaser, nice to be around, always waiting at the gate to be caught, even after she had a bad day.”

Lukacs said he had feeling the mare was special, still, he feels blessed considering how Lilly’s three-year-old year panned out.

“It was pretty incredible to pull off the win and then make finals in Calgary as well!” he says. “I’m fortunate to say I have competed in all of the first three years of the Canadian Spectacular – it has been an absolute asset to the cutting horse industry in Canada. I can’t say enough about Connie, Andy, Robin and anyone else who put in a whole lot of time and effort to make such a fantastic show!”

Lilly’s first showing was in Ponoka, AB, at the Black Elk Fall Classic however, she was star-struck under the bright lights at that event. But her first run at the Spectacular was solid, and the pair marked

CANADIAN SPECTACULAR a 146 to tie for second in the go-round.

“The second run was more of the same, only she had to do most of it on her own because I was very nervous. I’ll never forget Brad Pedersen telling me I could breathe after the buzzer!” he laughs.

The duo marked a 146 again, for another second in the go-round and tied for first overall in the aggregate. Lukacs relays that it was a very special run for him, as it was the first finals he’s ever made in his career.

“We tied for first in the limited as well ,with my good friend Tyler Darroch. The futurity is the class that everyone wants to do well in – it’s a real testament of horsemanship and horse power,” Lukacs states.

“For our finals run, we drew up fourth and Doug Reinhardt just kept telling me to go with my gut. So I did, and we cut all three cows that we liked and the mare was very accurate and never missed a beat. After the buzzer I couldn’t believe it when the score came in – I didn’t know if I should cry or laugh! It was definitely one of the most memorable days in my career this far!”

The trainer credits his sister Julianna for loping the mare for him.

“My sisters Julianna and Teresa always do such a great job getting horses ready. I can’t thank them enough for all their help.

I think the most memorable part was of course winning the Futurity, but making the finals in all three events (the Futurity, Derby and Classic), was really special. I’ve been very fortunate to throw a leg over some very nice horses, and it sure feels good when all the hard work pays off! I have to thank my help Doug Reinhardt and Brad Pedersen for always getting me out, Tyler Darroch, Loren Christianson and Glen Beveridge for turning me around up top. Couldn’t do it without those guys!

My parents and family – especially my dad for always supporting me and pushing me. My beautiful wife Isabel for being my rock and always keeping me focused. And thanks be to God for all the opportunities He has given me in this life!”

Lukacs and Reybellious made a score of 150 in the finals and won $9,580 for the championship.

Larissa Price and High Yall

NON-PRO FUTURITY CHAMPIONS Larissa Price &. High Yall

The Spectacular was the second major event that Larissa Price of Langley, BC, rode her mare High Yall in, in 2021.

Sired by Pegasus and out of CD Yall Love Lucy, the gray mare is lovingly referred to as “Meg.” “We were still getting our sea legs (or show legs) if you will,” Price chuckles.

“The first run was a little rocky but we figured out how to show, going forward.

So the next run was far better and placed us in the finals. I drew up last, which isn’t the most ideal spot, but I have always liked to be last. You have nothing to lose, and you can lay it all out there!”

Meg was purchased in November 2020 from friend, Deborah Anderson.

Initially, Price had snapped the mare’s sales photos when Anderson put her up for sale.

“Little did I know that I would take that little gray mare home with me!

“Meg is the sweetest mare I have ever been around. She always has her ears up when you come in the barn and always has her nose on the door when you walk by. She is incredibly smart and willing to learn when training her. She had a big stop and she always wants to please. She is a fabulous model for my small business

as she sported my loping hackamores because she is photogenic and good to deal with.”

This was Price’s first time contending at the Spectacular.

“The show must go on – and the Canadian Spectacular did just that! It was our second major event this year and honestly, it was a blast. Connie and everyone behind the show did such a fabulous job at getting it produced.

Especially after the new restrictions were placed right before. So thank-you to the shot, Silver Slate arena and the Santangelo family!” she exclaims.

The pair marked a 147 in the finals to win a paycheque worth $2,444.

“I want to thank my show help. Glen Beveridge, Brad Pedersen, Johnny Lukacs and Tyler Darroch. Thank you!” she says.

“The finals in both the open and nonpro classes are always the thing to watch.

There were so many great horses at this aged event that made the finals! You couldn’t help but watch, yipp and cheer for all the finalists.”

OPEN DERBY CHAMPIONS. –Glen Beveridge & Louella Rey (Owned

by Amanda Weber)

There was another horse to take the spotlight at the Spectacular with the

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 45

barn name “Lilly.” Louella Rey, sired

by Dual Rey and out of Louellas Cat won the Open Derby with trainer Glen Beverage aboard. Beverage, who hails from Valleyview, AB, first rode the horse at the 2020 NCHA Futurity.

“Jesse Lennox trained her and I got to catch ride her at the Futurity for Rocking P Ranch,” Beverage explains.

“This spring we had the opportunity to buy Louella Rey from Rocking P and I had some good clients/friends Amanda Weber and Travis Antoine buy her for me. We got her home and the first show up here was the Black Elk spring show, where she won both go-rounds.”

At the Spectacular, the duo scored a 148 in the finals for a payday worth $6,364.

“The Spectacular was run very well and made for a great show. Big thanks to Connie and Andy Cicoria for putting the show on! I would also like to thank my help that makes it all possible. This includes my wife Danielle for all the hard work, looking after the horses and me,” he laughs.

“Also, Jaiden Larson for loping and having the horses feeling 100%. Tyler Darroch, Matt Anderson, Doug Reinhart and Johnny Lukacs for helping in the show pen. And thanks to all my clients who send us up and down the road.”

Glen Beveridge and Louella Rey

NON-PRO DERBY CHAMPIONS – Pauli Smith & Blu Lilies

Like many horses, Covid affected Blu Lilies’ futurity year. She was originally purchased as a two-year-old in late 2019 from Tatum Rice in Weatherford, TX, by owner Pauli Smith of Eckville, AB. Along with trainer Doug Reinhardt, Smith had gone down at Futurity time, horse shopping. That’s when Reinhardt’s daughter, Emma, spotted a little mare outside of the sale “Her cowiness, personality and electric look stood out from the beginning,” Smith relays.

Sired by Once In A Blu Boon and out of Smart Alice Louise, the now four-year-old mare is better known as “Olivia.” Even with the uncertainties of last year, Olivia was able to secure the Open Futurity Co-Championship with

Pauli Smith and Blu Lilies

Reinhardt in the stirrups at the 2020 Canadian Spectacular. From there, it’s been nothing but upwards for Olivia.

“In her four-year-old year, she continued to get stronger and more solid.

The plan was made for both Doug and I to show her at the Spectacular. I was fortunate to have good cows in both my first two goes, I just tried to ride smart and let her do her job!” Smith admits.

“It worked and I made finals, where again, she came out strong and solid and

46 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

we marked 147 to win the Champion spot! She is so cowy and showy, I just have to make sure to do my part. My help; Doug Reinhardt, Gerry Hansma, Dustin Gonnett and Loren Christianson are a big part of it and I thank them.”

Smith echoes other competitor’s sentiments when referring to the Spectacular show and its producers. “The committee pulled off a fantastic and a well organized show, despite only three days ahead having to incorporate the new

CANADIAN SPECTACULAR Alberta Health Services restrictions!” she states.

“It was a tremendous group effort and we, as cutters, are so appreciative of the work that went into pulling this show off. The Spectacular has become a premier event in Canada, replacing the Canadian Supreme that no longer exists.”

Olivia went on, later in 2021, to win the Co-Championship of the Open Derby at the Wrangler Futurity held in Calgary, AB, in October with Doug Reinhardt in the saddle.

“I would like to thank Doug – who works so hard and trains a great horse – and also Emma, Kim Krebs and Ty at Corvet. All of whom have a huge part in my success!”

Brad Pedersen and Faith In My Metal

OPEN CLASSIC CHAMPIONS – Brad Pedersen & Faith In My Metal (owned by Ryan Richels)

Faith In My Metal was originally shown in the NCHA Futurity in the amateur division and made the finals.

She was not shown again as a four-yearold and was later purchased by Ryan Richels of Thorsby, AB, in the spring of 2021. Shown by trainer Brad Pedersen of Lacombe, AB, the mare secured the championship of the Open Classic at the Spectacular with a score of 148 in the finals. Their efforts rewarded them with $6,094.

“It was a great show and Connie Cicoria and her team did an excellent job, with dealing with the last minute Covid restrictions. I really appreciate all the effort show producers have made, to make it possible for us to show,” relays Pedersen.

Faith In My Metal is sired by Metallic Cat, out of a Smart Mate mare. She is known as “Ruby” in the barn.

“Ruby was really consistent in both the go-rounds,” says Pedersen. “She is very gritty and cow smart. The cattle were really tough that evening and I had a decent draw, so I was lucky to get some decent cattle cut.”

NON-PRO CLASSIC CHAMPIONS – Thomas Thorlakson & Lou Rey

When he and Lou Rey made the finals, Thomas Thorlakson of Rockyview

Thomas Thorlakson and Lou Rey

County, AB, knew they needed a great run to make a win.

“The first two runs, I didn’t try to do anything crazy. Just two clean runs,” he says. “Then in the finals I was last out.

I knew I needed a great run to win and was just lucky enough to pick some exciting cows that really showed Lou well.”

Sired by Dual Rey and out of Louellas Cat, Lou Rey is a full sibling to Louella Rey (champion of the Open Derby at

the Spectacular). She too, was purchased from the Rocking P Ranch (Owned by Bobby Patton and trainer, Jesse Lennox.)

“I had a blast at the Spectacular,” Thorlakson says. “It was the first time I’d shown in a true aged event format. It was a lot of fun to be in the finals with the music and big entrance presentations and everything.

“Lou is just an incredible athlete and it’s a treat to be able to ride such a nice horse.”

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Congratulations to the 2021

RAPP winners!

REINING ALBERTA PERFORMANCE PROGRAM “RAPP”

RAPP is a local breeding program designed to enhance the existing Reining Alberta Sire Incentive Program. The goal is to increase participation and purses. The program was expanded to allow any foal to be nominated to the program. Foals sired by enrolled stallions will be eligible for nomination into the program at significantly reduced rates. The goal is to continue to promote the local stallions and have a program that will also benefit local breeders who choose to breed to other stallions.

3 yr Old Futurity - L1 Open Champion EINSTEINS PEACH Shown by Sage Sapergia • Owned by Ray Landry

3 yr Old Futurity - L4 Open Champion A CHICS WHIZ SPECIAL Shown by Austin Seelhof • Owned by Outrider Ranch

3 yr Old Futurity - L4 Non Pro Champion NIFTY ELECTRIC Shown & Owned by Susan Strelioff

4 YR OLD DERBY L4 Open Champion L1 Open Champion L4 Non Pro Champion SHINED OUT SPOOK Shown & Owned by Lane Kiryk

5/6/7 Yr old Derby L1 Open Champion LIL GLAMOUR GUN Shown by Sage Sapergia Owned by Nancy Dibben 5/6/7 Yr old Derby - L4 Open Champion ONE GUN REMINGTON Shown by Shawna Sapergia • Owned by Phil Heidebrecht

5/6/7 Yr old Derby - L4 Non Pro Champion CHIC NITES R SPECIAL • MAGNUM CHICKDRAW

Shown & Owned by Shonda Day • Shown & Owned by Holly Kowblick

You must be a current Reining Alberta Member to nominate your foal. Nomination forms are available at www.reiningalberta.net and are due by November 30, 2021

RAPP 2021 Sires: ALLTHATSHINES IS JOE

GIBSONS FINEST

MAMBOS WHIZ

SQUEAK GUN

Shauna Getz/Whitby Farms

Foothills Ranch

Ken & Peggy Johnson

Shauna Getz/Whitby Farms

SUGAR CAT MAN

BERRY FINNOMENAL

GUNNING FOR CHEX

NORTH SAIL SOLITAIRE

Nicole Klassen

Bonnie McCutcheon, Manager

M. Whitmarsh/Willow Acres QH

CD Quarter Horses

BUSY BLEACHIN CHEX

HESA HOT GUNNER

PS MEGA SHINE CHIC

TEXAS TINSELTOWN

D. Hanson Ranch

Hollasch Quarter Horses

Adh Mor - Big Luck Ranch

Locke & Deb Duce

CHICS IN THE MALE

JOS NEXT TOP GEM

SHINERS LENA DUST

WHIZ N STARLIGHT

Lynne Hoff

Karlie McKeand

Ken & Peggy Johnson

Clay Webster Perf. Horses

CRUSIN WHIZ

JU JUZZ GUNSLINGER

SHINEY GOLDEN GUN

WIMPYS NU CHEX

Trueman Farms (Tammy Stewart)

Ranae Widney

Brian & Vicki Braun

Doug Baker

DUNITSMART THISTIME

LIL JOE CASH

SMOKIN AMMO

D. Hanson Ranch

Gaylene Sawchuk - agent

EINSTEINS CASHNCHEX

LOKOTA CHIC

Ronja Schippers

Brian Knutson/Bar K2 Ranch

ELECTRIC SNOW

MAJOR DURANGO

Equine Plus/Andre De Bellefeuille

S. Gail & Robert Gatto - Jr. Stallion

Enrollment Fees: Stallion fee $500/stallion/year Deadline for stallion nomination is May 15, 2022 After May 15, 2022 late fees apply: Gord Robinson (Big Rock Arena) Stallion enrolment fee $750/yr

Foothills Ranch

SPECIAL MADE WHISKEY SPOOKS BIG BANG Brian & Giselle Aebly

Reining Alberta www.reiningalberta.net

REINING ALBERTA

A STRONG YEAR Just when Reining Alberta thought the reining industry couldn’t get any bigger in the province, that’s exactly what happened.

BY KATHIE MACKENZIE

Lane Kiryk and Shined Out Spook dominated the four-year-old Derby division this year.

Holly Kowblick tied for second. Day on Chic Nites R Special and Kowblick on Magnum Chickdraw were co-champions in the RAPP Non-Pro derby.

The Summer Classic show schedule was full of great runs in all of the classes and welcomed a new fun event – the Pro/Am Challenge. Here, 14 teams of professionals and amateurs joined together to complete a pattern in two parts on the same horse.

Every team had fun, with a little bit of seriousness… the final tally came down to a tie which resulted in a FOOT race of our four riders. The Kyle Ryan/Jesse Beckley duo won by an arms length against Nate Burchell and Pearl Aebly. It was a fun event to watch and the participants really enjoyed themselves.

Just when we thought the Summer Classic was going to be an anomaly…

the 2021 Fall Classic & Western Canada Affiliate Regional Championships proved us wrong. There were 295 stalls booked for the fall show and we had 217 horses entered into classes – this had to be the biggest show ever for RA. Once again, we had long days but everyone pulled together and put on a great show. The Three-Year-Old Futurity ran late into the night but everyone gave it their all. In the Non-Pro Futurity, Susan Strelioff on Nifty Electric won the Level 4 (NRHA and RAPP) with a 143.5 and Nicole Flood on Smart Nu Guns took second in the NRHA Level 4 with a 141.5. Renee Zakaluzny on Shine On Tinsel was second in the RAPP Non-Pro Futurity with a 139.5.

The Open Futurity had Austin Seelhof on A Chics Whiz Special (owned by

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 49

Waltenberry

2021 was a fantastic year for Reining Alberta (RA) regardless of the challenges of pandemic restrictions at the beginning of the season.

For starters, the 2021 Summer Classic was full of surprises! With 288 stalls booked, 214 horses entered from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Alberta showed over the four days, this show was felt to possibly be the largest RA event ever. It was easy to see everyone was excited to be at a horse show again.

The four-year-old Derby, both Open National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) and Reining Alberta Performance Program (RAPP) and the RAPP Non-Pro were dominated by Lane Kiryk riding Shined Out Spook. Scoring a 145 to win the Level 4, Level 1 Open (NRHA and RAPP) in the Open division and scoring a 144.5 to take reserve in the Non-Pro Level 4 and Level 1 and champion in the Non-Pro RAPP Derby, Kiryk had a show he will never forget.

Royal Worbets on TR Dream About Me scored a 145 in the Non-Pro Level 4 and Level 1 (NRHA) to take the win.

The 5/6/7-year-old Open Derby had Shawna Sapergia on One Gun Remington (owned by Phil Heidebrecht) winning both the Level 4 NRHA and RAPP. Austin Seelhof on BB Gunna Trash Talk (owned

by Julie Olenyk-Wong) took second with a 151 and Jesse Beckley on Snip Of Jac (owned by Norma Siebert) with a 150.5 took third in both the NRHA and RAPP L4 Derbies. Sage Sapergia on Lil Glamour Gun (owned by Nancy Dibben) took the win in the Level 1 NRHA and RAPP with a 145. Shelbie Friesen on Shining High Spook won the Non-Pro Level 4 and Level 1 with Shonda Day and

REINING ALBERTA THANK-YOU TO:

Events like this take a lot of planning and coordination.

Support from our sponsors this year has been heartwarming and truly outstanding: Findoor Adh Mor Big Luck Ranch Cambridge Hotel Peavey Mart Jensen Silversmiths Northern Performance Horses Dechra Veterinary Products Integrity Buildings Friend of Reining Alberta (anonymous donor) Boontek Industries Ltd Central Canada Reining Horse Association The Mill Store Trouw Nutrition Seelhof Performance Horses Prairie Mountain Ranch Outrider Ranch The Kolsun Family/Terry Olineck/Reich Ranch Special Made Whizkey TLC Tack Greenhawk Calgary Smith Training Stables The Lauder Family Rock Lake Consulting Don & Arlene Hepburn Equine Unlimited Bullet Proof Bumpers Amanda Antifaev & Tyrell Smith Morning Star Ranch Jim Keith Neacolette Aschenbrenner Linda Reese-Friesen BRK Masonry 50Plus Learn to Ride Wilma Yule Burwash Equine Services The Wong Family Carvallo Pulse Therapy Mountain Athletic Therapy NAK Horses Rose Fire Saddles & Tack MJ Myers Ventures Sonador Ranch Carola Friesen Heule Performance Horses The Burchell Family Park Insurance CR Equine Cross Country Infrastructure Services Shelley & John Hayes Omega Alpha Thank you, also, to our volunteers, our stallion owners, our trainers, our exhibitors, the entire membership, the Board of Directors and our staff for your endless hours of dedication. 2021 was a great year regardless of the challenges presented to us.

50 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

Outrider Ranch) winning both the NRHA Level 4 and RAPP Level 4 classes with a 143.5. Amanda Antifaev on Chekd My Guns and Jesse Beckley on Spooks Bandit (owned by Brian Knutson) tied for second in both classes with a 143. The Level 1 Open Futurity (NRHA and RAPP) was won by Sage Sapergia on Einsteins Peach (owned by Ray Landry). Sapergia accepted the George Lauder Memorial buckle on behalf of her owner. The memorial buckle is presented to the owner of the Level 1 RAPP winning horse. Lauder was a well respected owner and breeder of top quality reining horses and he loved the Three-YearOld Futurity. Reining Alberta is honoured to have this award in his name to pass on.

Planning for 2022 will be underway soon, who knows what challenges lie ahead. If 2020 and 2021 have taught us anything, it’s that our sport is strong, our horses are great and our people are faithful and dedicated. Looking forward to 2022!

Keep calm and ride on!

Sage Sapergia accepted the George Lauder Memorial buckle on behalf of Ray Landry, owner of Einsteins Peach.

Austin Seelhof on A Chics Whiz Special, winning the 3 year-old Futurity, L4 Open Champion

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 51

2021 ACHA Y $50,000 AMATEUR

1. Champion - Colleen Wallace 2. Reserve Champion - Scott Wardley 3. John Martin 4. Lisa Eaton 5. Neil Shanks

$35,000 NON PRO

1. Champion - Randy Vanee 2. Reserve Champion - John Martin 3. Julianna Lukacs 4. Jeremy Walburger 5. Trent Schade

$15,000 AMATEUR

1. Champion - Leslie Posein 2. Reserve Champion - Trent Schade 3. Meredith Sinister 4. Ryan Richels 5. Rebecca Gervin

$25,000 NOVICE HORSE

OPEN CHAMPION: 1.Redneck Creyzy, owned by Rocky Davis, shown by Glen Beveridge 2.Reserve Champion - Catsa Spot, owned by JT Bell, shown by Glen Beveridge 3. This Cats Max, owned by Doug Wiens, shown by Travis Rempel 4. Emma Rey, owned by Amanda Smith, shown by Dustin Gonnet 5. RPL Cat N Around, owned by Monica Wille and Jim Agnew, shown by Dustin Gonnet

THANK YOU TO OUR CLASS SPONSORS

ADDITIONAL SPONSORS

Zender Ford Open Trans Peace Construction Non Pro Moore Equine 50,000 Amateur Reid Cutting Horses 25,000 Novice Horse K&K Livestock 25,000 Novice Horse Non Pro Integrity Built 5,000 Novice Horse Diamond T Cowhorses 5,000 Novice Horse Non Pro T & T Sand and Gravel 35,000 Non Pro Lynnwood Drugs 15,000 Amateur CorVet Services 2,000 Limit Rider

Guy Matheson Back On Track Pauli Smith Energy Equine Pro Cutter Rainbow Ford Krystina Lynn Photography Marc Ascione Sara Kalke, Realtor

52 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

1. Champion - High Brow Clay 012, owned by Connie Down-Cicoria, shown by Cody Smith 2. Reserve Champion - Olenasdualy Boonsmal, owned by Carol Bailey, shown by Dustin Gonnet 3. Lois Lane, owned by James Mann, shown by Travis Rempel 4. Who Are You Anyway, owned by Barbara Stewart, shown by Gerry Hansma 5. Her Royal Queen, owned by Rocky Davis, shown by Glen Beveridge

$5,000 NOVICE HORSE

1. Champion - Kual Dual, owned by Ken & Karen Mix, shown by Gerry Hansma 2. Reserve Champion - LSR Addarosa Rio, owned by Jill Rennie, shown by Tyler Darroch 3. Spots Montana Doc, owned and shown by Denton Moffat 4. Miss Playin RG, owned by Jewel Volts, shown by Glen Beveridge 5. Play N Possum, owned by Lisa Christianson, shown by Loren Christianson

$25,000 NOVICE HORSE NON PRO

1. Champion - John E Boon, owned and shown by Doug Vanee 2. Reserve Champion - Shinesintheboonlight, owned and shown by Melonie Armstrong 3. Smart Instantly, owned and shown by Binky Moffat 4. Nitarey Cine, owned and shown by Rocky Davis 5. Drive This, owned and shown by Catherine Taggart

Year-End Standings PHOTOS BY KRYSTINA LYNN PHOTOGRAPHY

$5,000 NOVICE HORSE NON PRO

1. Champion - Holliwood, owned and shown by Matthew Anderson 2. Reserve Champion - RH Purrolator Cat, owned and shown by Sandy Reid 3. Bet Hesa Lena, owned and shown by Kaila Stewart 4. WS I CD Cat, owned and shown by Carl Gerwien 5. One Million Reasons, owned and shown by Kate Rusnack

$2,000 LIMIT RIDER

1. Champion - Greta Wurtz 2. Reserve Champion - Thomas Thorlakson 3. Tory Correale 4. Gregg Garvie 5. Jeffery Slade

YOUTH

1. Champion - Greta Wurtz 2. Reserve Champion - Chase Pallesen 3. Brooklyn Beveridge 4. Teresa Lukacs 5. Wyatt Coates

NON PRO CHAMPION: Les Jack and CR Reyly Tuff 2. Reserve Champion - Amanda Smith 3. Haley Stradling 4. Rocky Davis 5. Heather Pedersen

ACHA SADDLE SERIES

Multiple Saddle winner! $35,000 Non Pro & $15,000 Non Pro Randy Vanee

$2,000 Limit Rider Tanya Nelson

Dave Robson Award Connie & Andy Cicoria

Most Improved Riders Most Improved Riders Adult Youth Shelley Travis Chase Pallesen

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW.COM 53

Backforty g

So, This is Christmas…

Story & Photos By Lee McLean

THIS SEASON IS RICH IN MEMORIES! I’m thinking of one Christmas Eve, when truck and trailer lights swept down the snowy lane with the arrival of old Cody, a gift from our soon-to-be son-in-law. It was 27 below but I hopped on for a bareback ride, anyway… I recall setting up Uncle Jack’s antique train set and how, as it circled the tree, Mike and Kitty would be jostling for a good seat up front. He, to blow the tin whistle each time the train passed by, the old calico cat, just to gaze in wonder. Last year marked her 17th – and final – tree…

Hanging the lovely angel (the one with the really big feet) from the dining room chandelier…

Remembering one year when our house was so small and cramped that the toddler, sitting in her high chair, pulled the Christmas tree into the gravy on the stove and started a fire…

Real pine boughs nailed below every

window, old musical instruments nestled among them and me, constantly pacing the halls armed with Ardox spikes and No. 9 wire, to Mike’s annual chagrin…

Singalongs with unpracticed fingers on the piano and how nobody ever knows the words to God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen but we sing loudly, nonetheless… The reality of constant chaos and the fact that despite vowing otherwise, you’ve gone and gained seven pounds…

Donning pearls and velvet and our warmest chore boots to attend the lovely country church of St. Aidan’s.

The rising smell of the barnyard as we warm up, the neighbour lady pumping away at the wheezy old organ, while we protect our candles from draughts and all-together-now sing, Silent Night… Pulling out box after box from the creepy attic, finding a spot on the mantle for the 1930s nativity

54 WESTERN HORSE REVIEW NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

scene, reuniting the main players with their broken-off heads. I love how the wisest of the men always looks as though he needs a Pepto-Bismol and that baby Jesus is large enough to captain the high school football team. It’s no wonder Mary needs no urging to “Fall On Her Knees…”

There’s hockey on the creek and always, a collie dog that runs off with the puck, “Shep! Shep! That’ll do!”… Taking time from preparing the feast to trudge out to the horses and give the old-timers their Christmas apples… Men, cracking nuts and bad jokes, sharpening the old bone handled carving set… The turkey, smelling rich, bowls and silver spoons and family linens gracing the table, gleaming in the candle light… Dear faces finally gathered, rosy-cheeked after rushing through all the cold and windblown chores…

So, this is Christmas. WHR

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