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Okotoks Living - Winter 2017
contents WINTER 2017 | VOLUME 8 ISSUE 35
Elma Street growth spurt What's old is young again thanks to new businesses
Business Excellence Awards Locals shine bright at the annual Chamber of Commerce gala
Jayme makes the jump Chamber announces new Executive Director
Is your home energy efficient? Try these top 10 tips from local experts
What's your favourite winter activity?
06 Editor's Message 08 Town of Okotoks Message 28 Events
culture & history
Quenching a town's thirst How Okotoks got its first liquor store
COVER PHOTO BY LANA ARMITAGE
@OkotoksLiving OkotoksLiving
W I NTE R 20 17 O KOTO KS LIVI N G
WINTER IS NOT my favourite time of year. Oh don't get me wrong, I love hockey, was an expert skier in my day, and still enjoy the thrill of finding the perfect toboggan hill. I just hate the cold.
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That being said, there's nothing like finding a smooth patch of outdoor ice on a sunny winter day and either just shooting a puck around or getting a game of shinny going. There's something uniquely Canadian about a group of people aged 5 to 55 (I'm often the oldest player) just naturally coming together at the local rink. Game on! What's your favourite winter activity? Check out what your friends and neighbours had to say on page 30.
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Dave Macaulay
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Vivian Zhang
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I'd also like to take the time here to wish
Jim Zang
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Ian Serpanchy
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Fred and Melba Fabick a happy 50th wedding
P R O D U C T I O N C O - O R D I N AT O R |
anniversary. Melba contacted me earlier this
Colleen Leier
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year with a neat story about her wedding
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dress and, after meeting her and Fred at the
Andrea Glowatsky
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Chili Fest this summer I knew I had to tell the
A C C O U N T I N G | Norma
story somehow.
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Fred and Melba eloped to Coeur d'Alene
back in September of 1967, on a Friday.
Brandi Holmes, Al King, Jody Sanderson, David Shepherd, Mario Toneguzzi
They were all dressed up and arrived at The Wedding Chapel only to be told they were too
late and had to wait until Monday to officially
Lana Armitage, Don Molyneaux, Isabel Rodriguez
tie the knot. So, when Monday rolled around, Melba — who was 18 at the time — put her
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dress back on only to find out that they needed to register and then wait yet another three days! Finally Fred and Melba wed on Thursday, September 21, 1967. And the dress, oh the dress! Val Von Matt,
Melba and Fred Fabick celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.
the wife of Fred's former boss at Husky, gave it to Melba at Val's 40th Birthday party. "It was just a dress that Val liked," says Melba about her wedding dress that is almost 70 years old now. Melba was determined to fit back in her dress, "I made up my mind to zip it back up again and I did it!" says Melba, who wore the dress for their 50th anniversary. Meanwhile, speaking of celebrations, there was lots to get happy about around town this fall. First up, the annual Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards on page 16. On a related note, meet the new Executive Director of the Chamber, Jayme Hall. Finally, we embrace the opening of several new businesses along Elma Street, including Lineham House Galleries. Read all about it on page 10. And, if I don't see you on Elma Street this winter, maybe we'll bump into each other at one of the many events happening in and around town. If you see me, stop me and say "Hi".
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P R I N T E D I N C A N A DA
© 2017 Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publishers. Okotoks Living™ is published four times per annum and is available free through select distribution points in Calgary and Okotoks. Source Media Group agrees to advertise on behalf of the advertiser without responsibility for claims or misinformation made by the advertiser and acts only as an advertising medium. Source Media Group reserves the right to refuse any advertising at its sole discretion. Okotoks Living™ accepts editorial submissions and letters to the editor by electronic mail only. Please forward any submissions, including your full name, phone number and return email address, to okotoks. editor@sourcemediagroup.ca C O N TA C T :
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Message from Mayor and Town Council
PHOTO BY JACKIE HUTCHINSON
From L to R: Councillor Matt Rockley, Councillor Tanya Thorn, Councillor Florence Christophers, Mayor Bill Robertson, Councillor Ed Sands, Councillor Ray Watrin, Councillor Ken Heemeryck.
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n behalf of Okotoks Council and Administration, I extend warm greetings to all residents and hope you and your families have a joyful Christmas season. This holiday season, we encourage residents to shop locally and visit the many shops and boutiques in downtown Okotoks and throughout our many other shopping districts. Don't forget to visit the Spirit of Christmas Art Show and Sale at the Okotoks Art Gallery for unique gift options! Remember you can shop to win a shopping spree at participating downtown businesses. For more information visit www.okotoks.ca. We would like to remind residents who would like to help those less fortunate during the holiday season of the several organizations providing Christmas support: Okotoks Food Bank, decorate the Tree of Warmth with your new scarves, gloves, mittens, toques, slippers and socks at the Okotoks Art Gallery for local charities, Salvation Army Foothills Community Ministries, Okotoks Family Resource Centre and more. Please visit www.okotoks.ca/support for information on these programs and others. We want to ensure that EVERYONE has a wonderful holiday season! The Town also invites residents to participate in the activities that occur in our community at this time of year. Skate with Santa on December 10, take part in the Kid's New Year's Eve Party at the Recreation Centre on December 31 or join us for the Outdoor Family Skating Party on January 14. See the Town calendar of events at www.okotoks.ca/events for all event details. You can also check out some exciting Okotoks Bisons, Oilers and new Bow Mark Midget AAA hockey action! We look forward to many new clients as New Year's resolutions guide our residents to visit the Okotoks Recreation Centre, Pason Centennial Arena or the Crescent Point Regional Field House for some indoor exercise. As 2017 comes to an end, we begin focusing on 2018, which we anticipate will be another busy year. I look forward to all that is coming up for Okotoks including the opening of the Pason Centennial Arena Expansion, the continuation of downtown redevelopment plans and further development of the Okotoks Community Campus lands. As your new Council for 2018-2022, we are thrilled to be representing the Town of Okotoks and look forward to working with you, our residents. On behalf of Okotoks Council and Administration, I wish all our residents and guests a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.
Mayor WM. (Bill) Robertson On behalf of Town Council
Elma Street growth spurt
What's old is young again thanks to new businesses
BY JODY SANDERSON
P H O T O BY L A N A A R M I TAG E
Lineham House Galleries
'm blown away by how quickly it's all happening over there." Quincy Brown, Economic Development Manager for the Town of Okotoks, admits he's fairly new on the scene, but the transformation of one of the oldest streets in Okotoks is one of the most exciting he's been part of. "Elma Street has identified a market need for Okotoks, and has moved to capture it. As a result, they have created a destination spot unique to Okotoks." Designated a Heritage Mixed Use District, Elma Street merchants have embraced the live/work concept that gives it that good feel place, with a stately streetscape. The architectural housing form is being preserved on a tree lined boulevard that lends itself to the boutique retail sprouting throughout the district. "I'm also struck by what good neighbours they all seem to be," Quincy adds. "It's happening organically and I hope we see more of it. With the work of Roger Brooks and the right zoning, the Town is excited for this kind of transition." The entrepreneurs who have created this dynamic change are indeed good neighbours, according to Sherry Lindenback. Sherry and her partner Robyn Ralph, who opened the intimate and classy 94 Take the Cake in June, are a part of what is good naturedly referred to as The Girls of Elma Street. "Businesses are so supportive of one another," she says. "We refer each others'
Elma Street has identified a market need for Okotoks, and has moved to capture it. As a result, they have created a destination spot unique to Okotoks."
businesses, and meet regularly to keep up with what's going on here, to talk about seasonal themes and marketing for Elma." One of the most successful was Okotoks Arts Council's recent Wizarding World of Okotoks event, which Sherry estimates brought between 2000-3000 people through the shop purchasing everything from Sorting Hat cupcakes to butterbeer cookies. Two years ago, Andrea Reinheimer opened 22 Collective, a clothing boutique for women who love the classics. She recalls jumping at the chance for a live/ work environment for her family. Originally from Oakville, Ontario, Andrea fell in love with Elma Street. "It reminds me so much of home, and the boutique feel of downtown," says Andrea, who recognized this author's jacket from a little shoppe in Okotoks' east end. "I think we all became friends because we have the same vision for Elma Street, albeit with different skill sets. And our customers like that we are local, and personal." The mixed used designation has allowed for businesses that provide a service to also pop up on Elma Street. Dr. Scott Gallup, has been practicing dentistry in Okotoks since 1997, and has been awarded "Best
Okotoks' own amateur theatre group, Dewdney Players, performs in the old Methodist Church. Natalie Jamieson opened her Mint & Maple collection in 'the little green house' two years ago, and she says it's more than a place. "Those of us here have poured our hearts, souls and finances into our businesses. I spent three years planning, and 6 months renovating. It's something we all have in common, and why we're so focused on preserving and enriching what we have. It's a very special place." Elma Street. The time honoured charm and grace of a Victorian bygone era, has been embraced by a creative and committed community with vision and perseverance. You kinda have to see it, to believe it. OL
Dentist" in the Foothills in 2009 and 2013. His cosmetic and family dentistry office acts as an anchor, being located at the corner of Elma Street and Northridge. WINKS+WHIMS is a licensed cosmetic and paramedical tattoo studio, which opened in Okotoks in 2016 and only just recently, moved to a quaint little home located at 114 Elma. Everyone, it seems wants to come to Elma. Surely the natural setting is a draw, but there is also the sense of being a part of history. Lineham House Galleries was once the home of John Lineham, who founded Lineham Lumber. Deava Beadz calls the Mahon house home, once belonging to GW Mahon who ran the flour mill. House of Proust Antiques is beautifully laid out at the former St. Peter's Anglican Church. And of course,
Janifer Calvez and Cheryl Taylor of Lineham House Galleries.
A Natalie Jamieson Mint+Maple. B Andrea Reinhamer 22 Collective. C Sherry Lindenback Elias Ralph (14) take a kid to work.
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Okotoks Living is proud to have sponsored the Star of the Game at the Okotoks Oilers game Friday, October 13.
12
Jayme makes the jump Chamber announces new Executive Director BY JODY SANDERSON
hile most 13-year old boys plan a laid back summer of pretty much hanging out and playing some ball between Junior High and High School, Jayme Hall did not. "You're going to laugh," chuckles the new Executive Director for the Okotoks & District Chamber of Commerce. "I have had a passion for leadership and setting goals since I was a kid. That summer, I was a part of RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) and spent a week at camp that changed my life! I became President of the student council at my high school in grade 12, re-connected with RYLA and spent the next five summers as a camp counselor. I loved every minute of it!" So how does a kid earmarked for something other than hawking news wind up as the familiar voice we love to hear in the morning on Okotoks' The Eagle 100.9? "We had this thing called High School Confidential where we'd record updates about our school, three times a year in Moose Jaw. I really enjoyed talking, to anyone actually. I also worked in a restaurant where I got really good at talking on the phone, of all things. And I wondered about radio, as a career, but thought it was an unreachable industry." This fitness enthusiast took the year after high school to explore options: a year of bartending, and what he calls "an unmemorable year" selling life insurance. "Not sure what I was thinking!"
"I took the plunge and registered at Saskatoon Broadcast College, and loved that too! That led to my first job with Golden West Radio in Estevan for two years as the morning host, which eventually led me here as morning host and Program Manager." He was also able to MC a number of Town events where he got to know the people and how involved in the community they are. And he wouldn't change a thing. "I absolutely love Okotoks. It's so beautiful here with the mountains and big sky. There are so many unique businesses and places. And the people here are friendly and helpful. It's just an awesome place to be." All of which has led Jayme to the Chamber of Commerce. "I got to really appreciate marketing and sales at The Eagle, and how businesses and the community work and support one another. I enrolled in the Marketing Program at SAIT, and plan to complete that program by the end of 2018. I emceed the Business Excellence Awards and annual golf tournament for the Chamber, and got to know the board, the organization and the members. I had many conversations with my dad, who is the Chamber ED in Assiniboia. I just fell in love with one day getting the opportunity to really get involved." Jayme's excitement is palpable. "I've never worked for a board before, but the ones I know are great. I'm looking forward to meeting all our members, finding out their needs. I want to learn the backend of everything, so if something goes wrong, I can fix it right away. I can't wait to get started!" And, as Jayme points out, he's just down the street, so stop by and say "hi". OL
I'm looking forward to meeting all our members, finding out their needs. I want to learn the backend of everything, so if something goes wrong, I can fix it right away. I can't wait to get started!" W I NTE R 20 17 O KOTO KS LIVI N G
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STORY BY BR ANDI HOLMES PHOTOS BY DON MOLYNEAUX
kotoks business movers and shakers showed up en masse to the Centennial Centre on October 19 to celebrate the winners and finalists at the Chamber of Commerce 2017 Business Excellence Awards. Hendrik van Wyk of the Two Cowboys worked his folksy charm as emcee, keeping things moving smoothly, and the wonderful pre-award entertainment from Jennifer Fulton provided a welcome musical interlude. Kudos to The George and the Students of Saint Vincent de Paul Youth Conference for the awesome meal and service! The event was graced by the presence of ten wonderful students from St. Vincent de Paul along with their three equally as awesome supervisors. The kids interacted with guests and served a delicious three-course meal. Okotoks Living spoke with Tara Epp who accompanied this group of typical students along with some special needs students. Tara says, "the impact
of the event on the special needs students was huge, they had a total inclusion experience and had to work together with the other students." It was also eye opening for the great business owners of Okotoks. "They did everything everyone else did. It let the kids, parents and community know that these students are more than capable of success." There are multiple businesses throughout Okotoks that support special needs students and put them in job placements, "at least 25 plus off the top of my head," adds Tara. The opportunity for this group of students to serve dinner to the top business people of Okotoks will open amazing doors and be an experience that they will never forget. Tara explains, "this is why I do what I do, the smiles on the faces of the students and parents when they were picked up at the end of the night makes it all worth it." Okotoks Living was the official photographer for the event, with Don Molyneaux behind the lens, while associate publisher Jim Zang, art director Jean-Faye Rodriguez, editor Pepper Rodriguez, advertising representative Andrea Glowatsky, social media guru Ian Serpanchy — along with special guests Jody Sanderson and Marg Cox — represented Okotoks Living at the event. As is our tradition, Andrea also presented the New Business of the Year award to Chris and Elaine Baker from Bone & Biscuit. Congratulations to all the winners in all the different categories, and thank you to all the people behind the scenes who made it all happen. For more photos of the Awards visit the Okotoks Living Facebook page. OL
Home-based Business of the Year: Eye See Clearly, Donna Gamble
Outstanding Customer Service — Individual: Chatters Hair Salon, Oliver Wolff
Buisiness of the Year (6 or less employees): Okotoks Auto Detailing, Aden and Audra Metcalf
Outstanding Customer Service — Business: Cobs Bread Okotoks, Lee and Kelly Hodgins
Business of the Year (7 or more employees): Carstar, Mark Kharfan
New Business of the Year: Bone & Biscuit, Chris and Elaine Baker
Community Impact Award: Tribal Connections, Wendy Badduke and Jodi Loverin
Marketing: The Eagle 100.9 Radio Station, Jay Penner
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culture | history
Quenching a town's thirst How Okotoks got its first liquor store STORY BY AL KING
n years gone by, before there was a liquor store in Okotoks, folks had to either make a trip to a provincial government liquor outlet or rely on someone travelling to any of Turner Valley, High River, or Calgary for their liquor requirements. Oftentimes, that poor soul, would arrive back in town with an entire car load of "booze"! By the late 1960s, Okotoks and area residents were of the general opinion that there was a need and demand for a liquor outlet in Okotoks. In a conversation with then mayor Pat Milligan, he and I decided that an attempt should be made to have a liquor outlet be located in Okotoks. I believe the year was about 1968 or 1969. We encouraged the town administrator to write to the manager of the Alberta Liquor Control Board (ALCB) requesting that there be such a store in Okotoks. The reply was an abrupt refusal! Following the rejection, the mayor and I, not satisfied with the answer, felt that we had to find a solution for our town. I took it upon myself to personally place a phone call to a Mr. Townsend at the ALCB and was fortunate enough to have an audience with him. I told him that we, the people of Okotoks and district, wanted a liquor store and validated reasons why we should have one. His reply was that the rules clearly state that there could only be a liquor store every 15 miles and that Okotoks was less than 15 miles from any of Turner Valley, High River or Calgary. My answer was, would he qualify why both the towns of Three Hills and Trochu each had a liquor outlet and that they were only 11 miles apart. I already knew the answer, as that area had a very strong and influential MLA. There was a long pause at the other end of the line, and then he answered with the statement that he would "see what he could do". I replied that that I would keep in touch, whereupon he asked me what properties might be available for a liquor store in Okotoks, I volunteered to research this to which he agreed. I immediately contacted Mr Mil-
ligan with the exciting news which he found very encouraging. It occurred to me that the Town of Okotoks owned some property in the west end. This piece of land was nothing more than a gully with several old cottonwood trees through which run-off water exited Elizabeth Street and flowed through the CPR bridge southeast through Mr. and Mrs. Russell Moore's land (later owned by Dr. Hill) to the river. It is now 105 Elizabeth Street owned by Wendy Langton and office of RE/MAX Signature Properties. I contacted Pat Milligan and suggested that the Town of Okotoks donate this land to the Alberta Liquor Board with the understanding that they clear and fill the lot and erect a liquor store. The town council did approve of the idea and in turn made an offer to the ALCB — which was accepted! Ozzie Hoiland's services were engaged to clear the trees. This was quite an undertaking as several of these trees were two to three feet in diameter. There was a lot of work involved in clearing the land and filling it with soil. Finally a building was constructed and a liquor store in Okotoks became a reality in 1971. It served the people of this town until 1988 at which time it was relocated to 150 Woodgate Road where there was more square footage for product and parking. OL
Al King
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Is your home energy efficient? Try these top 10 tips from local experts STORY BY BR ANDI HOLMES
or many Albertans, the topic of energy hits close to home — literally — and conserving energy is increasingly important to us. Home builders and buyers alike are more aware of the types of materials, products and techniques used to build homes. Plus, improvements in technology mean energy efficiency is more affordable and achievable than ever. Here are some tips from local industry experts on improving the efficiency of your home.
Change your light bulbs. This is probably the easiest way to alter the energy efficiency of your home. Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are inexpensive or LED lights are also a good option. "Buy your bulbs online," says Darrell Paul at Qualistat Building Performance Consultants. Get a programmable or smart thermostat. A programmable thermostat allows you to set times throughout the day when your furnace doesn't need to be on. Smart thermostats can adjust to your lifestyle and provide remote access allowing you to change settings from your smart phone. Unplug devices or use a smart power bar. Many people do not realize that when you turn an appliance off it may still be running power if it has a clock or any sort of light. Smart power bars can sense when a device is not in use and cut power to the device and the bar itself. If you aren't using it, unplug it. Check your windows. SketchNanoGuard is a revolutionary new liquid product that is painted on the windows inside your house, absorbing harmful UV and infrared rays. Alain Vadeboncoeur of Sketch Nanotechnologies says the coating "has many thermal benefits without compromising natural light. Glass is the number one cause of heat loss in your home — 48 per cent of heat goes right out your window, but with this coating the temperature in your home stays stable." Think about your insulation. Terry Ryan from Ryan Brothers Custom Homes says, "for existing homes, upgrading your attic's insulation to R-50 is the most important, depending on budget. You want a super-sealed envelope, so the outside of the house is protected from air and moisture.For new builds it's major."
Energy efficient appliances. When it comes time to replace your home's larger appliances, a high efficiency Energy Star rated machine is definitely the way to go. Upgrade to a high efficiency condensing furnace. A system with a high efficiency condensing furnace, a hydronic air handler combined with a tankless water heater or electric heat pump for space heating is the most energy efficient system possible for your home. Replace your water heater. Jenifer Christenson from BuiltGreen Canada suggests replacing your water heater with a tankless heater. Most high efficiency hot water heaters are a maximum 70 percent efficient, tankless heaters can be as much as 96 per cent! A tankless heater runs only when water flow is detected, once there is no more demand for water the heater shuts down thus no longer using energy. Consider Heat Recovery Ventilation. When looking for a new home, Darrell says that "heat recovery ventilation systems (HRV) are important". BuiltGreen Canada suggests that HRV is the best way to do that for HRV "both ventilates the home and recovers energy from expelled air." Solar Energy. Ken Donaghy from Sun Mine Energy says, "changing to solar makes a difference to everyone's life and environment." Whether you are a homeowner or business, electricity costs are a large portion of your monthly expenses. With a solar array you will generate free power for 25 plus years, which is the lifecycle of the system. A typical residential solar array will eliminate three to four tons of carbon emissions each year — the equivalent of planting over a hundred trees annually. OL
| ADVERTISING FEATURE |
Apex Developments Building communities with pride
PEX, a multi-faceted real estate development company, has as its slogan "Building Communities with Pride." And that's exactly the approach it's taken to its MountainView development in Okotoks. "We like it because of the lot sizes we are able to accommodate for home builders. We love working with the Town and Okotoks is just a beautiful place to build in," says Kayla-Rae Maurer, land administrator with APEX. APEX is in the last two phases of MountainView which offers single-family, semi-estate and estate ridge view housing. "There are about 120 lots left," says Maurer of the development, which sits on the northwest edge of Okotoks and — as its name suggests — has spectacular mountain views. "There will be 427 homes on full build-out. Excel Homes is building single-family and semi-estate homes while Sterling Homes is building single-family, semi-estate and ridge view homes. Mountainview is a popular area among new families and retirees, says Maurer, and boasts 35 acres of environmental reserve. The community is located on a quiet hillside above the Sheep River escarpment and is specifically made for families who want home to feel like a getaway from the world. Below the escarpment, the lower lands will be home to a newly constructed naturalized wet pond, to fit in with the existing creek, abundance of trees and natural areas, which will preserve and enhance wildlife habitat for numerous different species. "There is a naturalized wet pond, landscaping and extensive pathways around MountainView. The escarpment will remain
relatively untouched as to preserve its natural beauty." Over the years, the company's work has been recognized in a number of ways, winning over 50 SAM Awards from the Calgary Regional Home Builders Association and the Alberta Home Builders Association, and national awards from the Canadian Home Builders Association, including three Grand SAMs. "We are committed to constant innovation and refinement to continuously improve our products and services and deliver the very best to all of our customers and communities," says the company on its website. APEX says MountainView embraces the Rocky Mountain and Alberta prairie theme by featuring five traditional architecture forms. Each design has elements of masonry and woodworking which add unique aesthetic flourishes to infuse a sense of individuality and textural distinction while maintaining the overall theme of the community. "APEX was founded in 1991 as a land development company in Calgary, Alberta. In 1996, APEX opened its first home building division with the creation of Cityhomes, building multi-family. This opened the door to a completely new direction for the company and paved the way for our next division: Excel Homes. Recognizing the need for affordable, top quality homes for first time homebuyers and young families, Apex acquired Excel Homes — already a successful home building company operating since 1988 – in 1997, "rounding out our product offering and positioning us as one of the most versatile developers and home builders in the province," says Maurer. "A legacy we have proudly carried to this day." n
Arrive at The Landing
Partners Development Group offers lasting value in a great location
RRIVE at The Landing, the newest townhome development by Partners Development Group, is making Okotoks affordable again. Plus, these versatile two and three-bedroom homes are located in the award-winning, family-friendly community of Drake Landing, on Okotoks' east side, where conveniences like playgrounds, pathways and retail stores are already all in place. With 30 units total — 21 double master homes and nine three-bedrooms — ARRIVE is literally the only new condominium development in Okotoks right now, making these townhomes one of the best values in town. "Every ARRIVE townhome is BuiltGreen® certified," says Jade Mahon, vice-president of sales and marketing, "with beautiful modern specs and a maintenance-free lifestyle that brings the best of what condo ownership has to offer along with sustainable utilities and condo contributions." The combination of great floor plan designs, offering efficient living space with bright, Low-E windows, and top quality construction, are key ingredients in creating a popular town home community. Affordability is just the icing on the condo cake. Presales are going smoothly, says Mahon. "So far we have one family and one young professional and sales will continue as word gets around, plus we will have a couple of show suites ready for January so people can appreciate the upgraded finishings and appointments that are included in the purchase price." There are two models, she says, the Alto — which is a three-storey, double master bedroom plan with a large flex room and single garage — and the Stratus — which is a two-storey, three-bedroom home with a double garage. The basements are all developed with a rec room, fourth bedroom and a third full bath. Both offer abundant living space, measuring in at 1,300+ and 1,900 square-feet, respectively, with all levels fully finished. Prices on the double master homes start at $319,900 and the three-bedrooms from $379,900. "These homes are built solid, air tight and energy efficient," says Mahon, "with the upgrades that people desire most. It's
a balancing act between meeting buyers' expectations and maintaining affordability — and we've done that here. We have upgraded specs, including high quality laminate hardwood flooring throughout the kitchen, living, dining level; luxury vinyl tile in the wet areas; and 38-ounce carpeting everywhere else," she says. "We are show casing quartz countertops as well as contemporary cabinet finishes. We have nine-foot ceilings on the main level (kitchen/living/dining), and upper floor laundry is in both models, for that convenience we can all appreciate." The homes come equipped with a stainless steel kitchen appliance package, front load washer and dryer, and twoinch faux wood blinds. The double master plans have a patio on the ground floor as well as an upper deck while the three-bedroom models have outdoor living space around the west facing front patios. Exteriors are finished in long-lasting, low-maintenance Hardie Board siding, brick accents and feature black window casings. Arrive at the Landing has Kids' Stop Daycare on location; as well as Partners Development Group's main offices will be found here, both opening in 2018. "I'm really looking forward to moving soon," says Mahon. "And I don't just mean our office headquarters. My husband and I are moving to ARRIVE at the Landing in a couple of months, from northwest Calgary." Construction is on target for completion by the summer 2018 and Partners will have two show suites opening early January, with 60-day possessions. Showings are by appointment only, via calling Brad Pond at 403-816-0691. "We feel people will be pleasantly surprised – this is what we do, build affordable, sustainable townhome communities, and we want to share this with the Okotokians, as one of their own." President and founder, Greg Gutek and his family along with the senior management team, have resided in Okotoks for well over a decade now, and the entire Partners team is excited for the move. n
For more information visit arrivehome.ca 24
Loving Lifestyle
Lifestyle Homes goes beyond the traditional family home
heir name says it all: Lifestyle Homes is all about having a home designed to fit one's lifestyle. Combining form, functionality and purpose with flair, Lifestyle Homes has been building iconic, luxury homes to fit their buyers' wants and needs for over 20 years. Ever since Lifestyle Homes built their first "lifestyle-oriented" home in Chestermere some two decades ago, the trusted homebuilder just seems to come up with even better ideas for their line of personable, prestigious and luxurious family homes. In fact, the newest show home that Lifestyle Homes introduced in Okotoks' Cimarron Estates captures the easy grandeur and stylish practicality that they've built a reputation on. Through their success, Lifestyle Homes has underscored a focus on the custom-built aspect of homebuilding with top-notch, personal customer service, and with the added advantage of competitive pricing. Lifestyle Homes offers an exciting array of luxury estate homes, move-up homes, laned and starter homes – always with an eye on style. As Lifestyle Homes' Brenda Gould puts it, their biggest advantage is how they underscore "sophistication and quality" in everything they do. Even when building a 1,200 square-foot laned quick possession home, the selections and finishes are one of a kind, not cookie cutter. The same individual care, unique selections and quality finishing can be found in the starter homes right up to their estate homes. "We pride ourselves in building a home that perfectly fits each homeowner. From small adjustments, to complete custom designs, we are delighted to work with our clients to make their home one of a kind," Gould, Lifestyle's director of marketing and client services says. She is also heavily involved in the interior design of their show homes, and the Kimber show home is a good example of the kind of quality and de-
tailed craftsmanship Lifestyle Homes is capable of. The 3,218-square-foot show home that only recently opened in Cimarron Estates in the southeastern part of Okotoks has everything a growing family could want, and more. From the grandiose open-to-above design of the great room, to the spacious children's bedrooms, and the double island grandness of the kitchen, it's the picture of perfection. With its location atop a ridge overlooking the Sheep River and the winding pathways of Heritage Parkways, it is the ideal executive family home. And at $1.4 million, it is certainly a better value than a comparable home in Calgary. But Lifestyle Homes isn't just about the grand homes, they also have a line of two-storey moveups and bungalows from 1,500 square-feet available in Cimarron. While in the nearby community of Drake Landing, they also have laned homes from 1,200 square-feet, move-up homes up to 2600 sq ft and estate homes on the ridge. Lifestyle's latest development is a 31 unit 50+ Adult Community villa style "pocket neighbourhood" called the Parkhouses in Drake Landing in Okotoks. "These boutique, low-maintenance bungalow villas front on to a common green space park. This is the reverse of how some current villa developments are laid out" Gould says. Exceptionally featured, each home includes a double car rear-attached garage, an inviting front porch, a private inner courtyard, vaulted ceilings, and upscale finishings throughout. "With Built Green Platinum status, and maintenance taken care of, it is easy for snowbirds to travel and not concern themselves with upkeep of their home", she says. Lifestyle Homes isn't all about the looks of homes either. "Our buyers understand that it's what we put behind those walls that really count," Gould says. "We believe in building homes that are safe and durable for decades to come. We don't just care about how we build, but we try to educate the homeowner on what they should be buying, and why they should be buying it. Our homes exceed today's building code requirements and meet many of those contemplated for the future." Interested parties can check out the Kimber show home at 70 Cimarron Estates Dr. and the Parkhouses at 11 Drake Landing Heights. n
Visit www.lifestylehomes.ca for hours and more information
what's happening To have your event listed, email info to okotoks.editor@sourcemediagroup.ca
ongoing Okotoks and World War I 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This temporary exhibit is a cumulative collection that follows the battles of World War I, marking significant events and battles as well as the roles Okotoks residents played in the war. The exhibit will continue until the 100th anniversary of the end of the war in November 2018. Stop by for a baked treat from in-house baker Rhonday Bymak Saturdays from 1 – 4 p.m. at The Parkhouses by Lifestyle Homes in Drake Landing. Turgor by Daniel Evans runs from January 13 to February 24 at the Okotoks
Art Gallery, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Turgor by Edmonton artist Daniel Evans is an exhibit of large-scale drawings exploring themes of hybridity and the city as an organism.
as the starting point for each work, Redwood Meadows artist Kim Bruce strives to bring awareness to the importance of education and the role it has in shaping future generations.
Pleasing Everybody All the Time by Manny Blair runs from January 13 to February 24 at the Okotoks Art Gallery, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Okotoks artist Manny Blair's intention for this exhibit is to attempt the futile — to please everybody all of the time.
Illuminating the Diary of Alda Dale Randall by Marlena Wyman runs from March 3 to April 7 at the Okotoks Art Gallery, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. As a former archivist, Edmonton artist Marlena Wyman found women's stories significantly lacking in archival collections, specifically the voice of early prairie women. This exhibit is inspired by the 1920 diary of Alberta homesteader Alda Dale.
Disbound by Kim Bruce runs from March 3 to April 7 at the Okotoks Art Gallery, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Using books
, 2 Big Rock Singers present "A Very Canadian Christmas" at the Okotoks United Church, 7 p.m. on Friday and Sunday, 3 p.m. on Saturday. Featuring the Alberta High School of Fine Arts Vocal Ensemble. Tickets are available at Bigrocksingers.com and are priced at $30 for adults, $20 for seniors, and $10 for youth (18 and under).
, 3, 8, 9, 10 Peter Pan and the Secret Key starts at 7 p.m. Presented by the Goodger Pink Family Theatre. Doors open 30 minutes before the show. Tickets are $5.00 + GST and fees.
Backbeat Irish Dancers: Live at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre. Take in the Riverdance experience this Christmas — right here in Okotoks! Backbeat is a professional Irish dance show that celebrates traditional Celtic dance with a modern twist. Enjoy a thunderous, high-energy performance for the whole family! Matinee performance at 3 p.m. and evening show at 7 p.m.
, 9, 16 Create holiday crafts between 12 and 2 p.m. at the Okotoks Art Gallery. Drop-in to create your own holiday ornament, cards, and more!
Chamber of Commerce Christmas party at Lynnwood Ranch from 6 to 11 p.m. The event will be a great finish to 2017 and is sure to be tons of fun. We'll have lots of Christmas Cheer and prizes for Name That Tune and Minute to Win It! Check out www. okotokschamber.ca for more details.
Holiday Family Fun Day starts at 11 a.m. The excitement begins with the CP Holiday Train behind the Okotoks Art Gallery. The show begins at noon, so stop by the Art Gallery before or after for free hot chocolate and some holiday shopping at the Spirit of Christmas art market. Skate with Santa at the Piper Arena from 2:15 to 4:15 p.m. and enjoy the Christmas Picnic
at the Piano Carol Sing-a-long with Natasha Sayer, also at the Piper Arena from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Business Boot Camp Series about Business Organization. Taking place at Community Futures Highwood on 14 McRae Street between 6 and 8 p.m. Robin Platz F3 Organizing will teach how to organize a functional workspace. Deadline to register is Friday, December 8. Limited to 20 participants. $25 admission, which includes a light supper and beverage.
Pop Up Christmas Market at Crystal Shores Beach House from 5 to 8 p.m. Shop unique products for that one-of-akind gift with lots of selection. Small event featureing 10 – 12 vendors with punch and treats.
Okotoks Film Festival presents "It's a Wonderful Life" at Okotoks Cinemas at 9 p.m. For more info visit okotoksfilmfestival.ca
events For information on Town of Okotoks events visit www.okotoks.ca/discover-okotoks/things-do/community-events-calendar For culture and heritage events visit www.okotoksculture.ca
Movies for Change "Bully" by director Lee Hirsch at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre. Filmed over the course of the 2009/2010 school year, "Bully" opens a window onto the lives of bullied kids. Tickets are $5 at the door.
Pleasing Everybody All the Time by Manny Blair reception at the Okotoks Art Gallery from 1 to 3 p.m. Okotoks artist Manny Blair's intention for this exhibit is to attempt the futile — to please everybody all of the time.
Chamber of Commerce AGM luncheon at 11:30 a.m. at Crystal Ridge Golf Course. Cost is $30 for members and $37 for non-members (plus GST). See www.okotokschamber.ca for details.
Turgor by Daniel Evans reception at the Okotoks Art Gallery between 1 to 3 p.m. Turgor by Edmonton artist Daniel Evans is an exhibit of large-scale drawings exploring themes of hybridity and the city as an organism.
Family Tear is play that looks at the challenges of living with dementia. Presented by Dementia Friendly Communities Okotoks and hosted by The Okotoks United Church. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with show starting at 6. Donations accepted. For information call 403-995-6809.
Okotoks Film Festival presents "Singin' in the Rain" at Okotoks Cinemas at 9 p.m. For more info visit www.okotoksfilmfestival.ca
Toddle Down to the Art Gallery from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Enjoy exhibitions as you let your toddler explore up to 12 different hands-on art and activity stations with a Valentine's Day theme. Recommended ages 1 to 5.
Silver Screen Scoundrels at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre at 7:30 p.m. As the Silver Screen Scoundrels, Brandon Isaak and Keith Picot put on an entertaining multimedia show combining Music with Silent Films and Comedy! Brandon Isaak won the 2014 Maple Blues Award for being the Best Acoustic Blues Performer in Canada. In 2014 Keith Picot was nominated for a Maple Blues Award as Canada's Best Bass Player. Doors open at 7 p.m.
Lion Bear Fox at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre at 7:30 p.m. Lion Bear Fox was selected as one of the top 20 unsigned bands in British Columbia in 2012 (Peak Performance Project). The fall of 2013 saw the band release their self-produced breakthrough EP "We'd Be Good Men" and take Western Canada by storm, touring 15 times over the next two years. Doors open at 7 p.m.
Okotoks Film Festival presents "Moulin Rouge" at Okotoks Cinemas at 9 p.m. For more info visit wwwokotoksfilmfestival.ca
It would have to be hockey. I never really played it myself, but I became more interested and involved once my sons began to play. It's generational now — my grandchildren play it as well."
Probably skating! I used to figure skate when I was younger — for about 19 years! I used to do it competitively too, but now I just do it for leisure."
Definitely hockey. I played hockey for seven years, but I quit two years ago. Now I play with my friends out on a lake that's frozen over."
Carson, age 16
Randy Hill
Making snow angels! I make sure to dress good so snow doesn't get in my coat!" Nevannah, age 7
BY ISABEL RODRIGUEZ
Snowboarding! I've been doing it for three years now. It's something I do with my brothers. Our favourite spot definitely has to be Sunshine!"
It would have to be sledding! It's so much fun going down the steep hill by my house." Diane, age 9
Hockey, hands down! It's a trick question, but hockey by far. I coached for 23 years, and was a referee for 26. I'm retired now, and don't play as much as I used to, but I still love watching it. My family and I are big Hitmen fans, and we go to a lot of Okotoks Oilers games too!" Neven Wilson
Jasmine, age 16
Skating! I do figure skating, but I used to play hockey too. I've been figure skating for five years, and now I'm on the intermediate level. I actually have a competition in December!" Madisyn, age 12
My Family Dental Okotoks Family Dental services
Our family dental practice has been a part of the Okotoks community for over 20 years.
y Family Dental is a well-known name in the community of Okotoks. Their practice philosophy is to provide each patient optimal dental care within a relaxed and caring atmosphere. "We want our patients to feel like family, that is how we came up with our name 17 years ago!" says principal dentist and owner Dr Helen Robinson. This friendly dental office likes to pay it forward to the community by supporting a majority of the local arts, sports and education fundraisers and sponsorships. When asking Dr Robinson about her family practice, she reflects "My Family Dental will continually strive to uphold the highest standard of excellence in its field by not compromising quality for quantity and by mastering individual skills through continuing education". "We will empower our patients with the knowledge to make informed choices about Dr. Helen Robinson their oral health, with the acknowledgement that each patient has individual needs. Our patients will be treated with honesty and integrity. We will treat every patient as we would our families and ourselves." says Robinson, who has been a dentist in Okotoks for more than 20 years. Other dentists on staff include Dr. Elisha Chapman, who is a full-time associate, and Dr. Lisa Mallett, who works part time in Okotoks. Dr. Mallett's expertise is in implants and sedation dentistry. One of the things that My Family Dental is Dr. Elisha Chapman most proud of is their "Child Friendly" status, accredited 15 years ago by Child Friendly Calgary & Foothills. My Family Dental received accreditation in September 2002 after going through a number of qualifications. As Dr Robinson says "We Love Children! Trust is something we believe is key for any child to feel comfortable. The "FUN" factor is essential… we want your child leaving our office smiling and happy! The doctors here are all excellent with children, they are very in tune with children and their needs." Their modern facility has a play area, which Dr. Lisa Mallett includes a Playstation and XBox. It also
provides books, games and puzzles. There are TVs in all of the operatories so the children can watch cartoons or the Family Channel. One of Dr Robinson's unique offerings and initiatives, is a dental education program that she has wholly subsidized to the community for about 10 years now. The program was uniquely developed with children in mind, to develop a way to communicate to them on how to care for their teeth and the value of good oral health and nutrition. With a portable puppet theatre, plenty of visual aids and a very entertaining Dental Assistant, the program has been a hit! It is offered in pre-schools and kindergarten classes and each year reaches anywhere between 1,300 to 1,500 children. When it comes to adult dentistry, My Family Dental continues through on their values of high-quality dentistry. "Patients first is always our motto. We stand behind what we do here! Our focus is always on the quality, we choose materials and equipment that are top-notch." Explains Dr. Robinson. Office manager, Sherry Moser adds. "Dr. Robinson is very particular and she would never spare quality when treating a patient. We're going to treat every patient the way we would treat our own family. That's been a staple of how we run our practice!" Another focus is respect for our patients, respect for their time and their needs. Dr Robinson explains "I have always made a point to run on time by booking ample time for my patients. I would rather be waiting for my patient to arrive, than to ever have them waiting for me." "In an industry where many unforeseen emergencies can creep in, My Family Dental manages to stay accurate to their patients' appointment times. We are very proud of that!" States Moser The Dental Teams expertise spans from implants and sedation dentistry, to crowns, bridges and white fillings. My Family Dental also offers Invisalign for orthodontic corrections and teeth whitening. In addition they offer a highly trained hygiene department. Besides the three dentists, My Family Dental has 12 team members ranging from dental hygienists, RDA's to administrative people. They will help to decipher your dental plan and work with you to attain your dental goals. n W I NTE R 20 17 O KOTO KS LIVI N G


text:
"Letter to a Priest" () is a letter containing thirty-five "expressions of opinion on matters concerning Catholic faith, dogma and institutions" by the French religious and social philosopher and mystic Simone Weil. It was first published in 1951 by Gallimard, and an English edition followed in 1953. It has since been republished several times in book form.

Weil: "When I read The Catechism of the Council of Trent, it seems as though I had nothing in common with the religion there set forth. [...] I am going to enumerate for you a certain number of thoughts which have dwelt in me for years (some of them at least) and which form a barrier between me and the Church."

Weil scholar George Panichas writes that the letter reflects Weil's profound disagreement with official Catholic dogma, but also shows that her heart belongs to the Church.

The letter was addressed to a French priest living in New York, the Dominican Fr. Édouard Couturier, when Simone Weil herself was staying there in the autumn of 1942. She was anxious at this time to return to Europe to join the Free French Movement of Charles de Gaulle in London, even wishing to be parachuted into France to aid the French Resistance.

References

Works by Simone Weil
1951 documents
Letters (message)
Books about Catholicism
French-language works
Éditions Gallimard books

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


GreenerBilling comes to rescue Dave. There I was….Dave Kollasch: former world-class aggressive inline skater, a 20-something, single, handsome guy (by most statistics), and owner of a new lawn and landscape business! Instead of accolades for awesome skate maneuvers, I was getting paid for mowing lawns!
I bought my first push mower and stick edger; laid out $10.00 for a bunch of flyers and got my first customer the same day (still have that customer!). It wasn't long before there was a truck, trailer, zero-turn Exmark (love that machine, it makes the best stripes), gas blowers and trimmers. And lots more customers. Enough customers that I was able to convince a beautiful lady to be my wife!
So why GreenerBilling?...because I was coming home hot, sweaty, tired, and covered with dirt and grass, and I still had to make invoices, stuff and stamp envelopes, drive to the post office, and wait for payments!
Why did the bill for "the Lawn Guy" seem to be the last one paid? Why wasn't the check always "Under The Mat"? Why wasn't there an easier and faster way to get paid??
I figured if I had this problem with start-up invoicing, maybe some newbies to the profession might have the same problem.
There had to be a better way, but I wasn't finding exactly what I wanted. Sure, there were the mega-applications for invoicing; some even targeting our industry. But they somehow missed the mark. So, what to do?
Solution?? I'll build one that's just for the Lawn Care Professional.
It had to be easy-to-use and present a professional image of your business.
Communication between you and your customers had to be simple, quick, and effective, encouraging payments.
The status of all invoices had to be front and center --- you need to know where your money is!
The latest and best technology had to be used: email invoices, text messages, online credit card payments, create in-the-field estimates.
and - there had to be pictures of your landscape products on your estimates, so your customers can see what they're being offered.
It had to be usable on every platform and device, from desktop to mobile phone, creating a "greener" billing process.
And most important, it had to be fully responsive to us, the Lawn Care Pros!
It still has a lot of growing to do, but you are the professionals who will direct its development.
If something you need is lacking, we will do our best to provide it. Your feedback is what will make GreenerBilling not mine, but ours. It's an app built by and for the Lawn Care Professional !!!
Remember, You're not Just the Lawn Guy!! You're a Pro!
Fun Fact: Do you recognize the name, Dave Kollasch?
Well, my husband is an original pioneer of the sport of aggressive in-line skating. He set the world record for the longest handrail slide. And I finally gave in and let him install a personal grind rail (outside our front door, no less). He may be internationally known as a great rollerblader, but around here he still has to mow our own yard, and take out the trash!


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