MARCH/APRIL 2020 I t8nmagazine.com
PAMPER YOUR PETS Try a weekend at The Ranch
SOLAR PANELS
What every consumer needs to know
BREE TETZ
Crafts with a conscience
Upcycle Style Where to find nifty eco-items
S TURGEON VISION CENTRE Beautiful Eyewear. Competitive Contact Lens Prices.
BOUTIQUE OFFICE = LOWER OVERHEAD = SURPRISINGLY LOW PRICES
NE W PATIENTS WELCOME We want to ensure that we are partnering with manufacturers who are taking an active role in the environment. CooperVision is prioritizing environmentally responsible practices by continually evolving processes to use less and recycle more of the materials needed to make and distribute our products.
CONSERVING ENERGY Making a difference, one kilowatt hour at a time
Running 100% renewable sites All New York State operations powered by 100% wind-based electricity and Mountpark, UK site powered by 100% biomass* Reducing power consumption by using natural light, high-efficiency lighting, and advanced control systems in many of our facilities
SAVING WATER
Saving millions of gallons by being mindful Finding new ways to reuse and recycle water from rainwater collection programs to the repurposing of water used in production Minimizing demand on city-supplied water and decreasing waste water by approximately 1,400,000 gallons (5.299 million liters) per month*
REDUCING, REUSING, RECYCLING
Realizing the full potential of every resource Recycling
95%
of the materials used in our production process (on average)**
99%
of plastics into new products such as traffic cones and molded chairs**
Reusing cardboard containers
before they are recycled***
Repurposing
5-10x
*Puerto Rico facility. ***Puerto Rico and Hungary facilities. **As of Q1 FY 2018. Data subject to change. Š 2020 CooperVision.
780 569 5251
March/April 2020  sturgeonvisioncentre.com 1-530 St. AlbertT8NTrail
1
Contents
T8N MAGAZINE
VOLUME 7 ISSUE 2 March/April 2020 PUBLISHER
EDITOR
Rob Lightfoot
Gene Kosowan
ART DIRECTION
Brenda Lakeman, Correna Saunders DESIGN & PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT
Correna Saunders PHOTOGRAPHY
Brenda Lakeman CONTRIBUTORS
Rudy Howell, Paula E. Kirman, Markwell Lyon, Shima Zonneveld OFFICE MANAGER
Janice Lightfoot CONTRIBUTING AGENCIES Image page 6 © Taras Livyy/Adobe Stock Image page 8 © Tartila/Adobe Stock Image page 16 © Natalia /Adobe Stock Image page 23 © vvadyab/Adobe Stock
ISSN 2368-707X (PRINT) ISSN 2368-7088 (ONLINE)
For editorial inquiries or information, contact T8N magazine at info@t8nmagazine.com. Have something to say? Letters, suggestions or ideas can be sent to letters@t8nmagazine.com.
Conversations 6
Pondering Over Panels Solar power installations involve a hefty investment, but is the payback worth it?
Arts & Culture 9
THE 8s
Repurposing Retailers
FOOD & GATHERINGS Going Veggie-centric How you can make it easy eating green.
2 T8Nmagazine.com
THEN & NOW
A Legacy of Lanes
How St. Albert’s southeastern streets got their names.
24
MEET YOU THERE You name it, they frame it Mr. Frame offers border options galore.
The thrifty, upcycling world of Bree Tetz.
Check out items for the green-minded, crafty type in all of us.
18
23
From Trash to Treasures
Living 16
City
Spotlight 26 28
FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION Rob Lightfoot rob@t8nmagazine.com 780 940 6212 or visit t8nmagazine.com T8N magazine is published 6 times a year by T8N Publishing Inc. Copyright ©2020 T8N Publishing Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. Content marked by the Sponsored Content icon was produced in partnership between content producers and T8N magazine. PRINTED IN CANADA
T8N PUBLISHING INC PUBLISHER & PRESIDENT
Rob Lightfoot: rob@t8nmagazine.com
Bark at The Ranch
It’s nothing but the best for Fido and felines at this facility.
Down Time
Keep yourself amused with this home renovation-themed find-a-word puzzle. CONNECT WITH US
/t8nmagazine
Thank you St. Albert for voting us BEST SMALL BUSINESS
presented by St. Albert Chamber of Commerce
Connect with us on twitter @toastbl Visit us on facebook @toastbreakfastandlunch 11 Bellerose Drive I St. Albert I 780-328-4500
SAVE UP TO 30% OFF RETAIL PRICE! DEALS
UP TO
30% OFF DINNER
30% OFF
Comics & Graphic Novels
30% OFF Family Pass
30% OFF
A Day at the Spa
Alberta Prairie Steam Train
30% OFF
Select Family Excursion
Deals may be subject to change without notice.
Order your gift cards online on our T8N website: t8nmagazine.com/t8n-deals/
Check often for exciting NEW DEALS! T8N March/April 2020  3
I FROM THE PUBLISHER I It’s funny how a color this time of year could trigger a social issue almost unimaginable more than 20 years ago. Back then, the greenery that marked the arrival of spring conjured up notions of planting gardens and mowing lawns. These days, the coming of the season has also prompted concerns surrounding climate change to enter our consciences.
Rob Lightfoot
In response, this edition takes an eco-type perspective towards spring, also a time ripe for home renovations. One of those upgrades many people are considering are whether to install solar panels for economic and environment reasons. We look at the pros and cons of such an investment on page 6.
One of the latest ecological trends these days is a movement called upcycling and to that end, we talk to artist Bree Tetz on the effect of the trend on her work (page 9) as well as give you a rundown on shops that cater to those revitalized old items (page 16). Food is also an essential link to the environment, which is why we focus on a more green-oriented array of recipes (page 18). Outside that theme, we also look at the work going on at Mister Frame (page 24), trace the history of street names in the southeast part of the city (page 23) and offer a spa option for pets (page 26). Enjoy the read and remember that the one thing green shouldn’t represent is envy, because ultimately when it comes to the environment, we’re all on the same side.
4 T8Nmagazine.com
On the Cover This edition's cover features the crafty and clever works of artist Bree Tetz, who’s renowned in the region for creating original work from found items, a technique that underscores the essence of the upcycle movement. Catch her story on page 9. Photo by Brenda Lakeman.
11725 170 St NW I 780.451.1269
THANK YOU FOR YOUR LOYALTY, TO THE ONLY LOCALLY OWNED GROCERY STORE IN ST. ALBERT
10 OFF %
any order over $50
Excludes milk, lottery and pharmacy purchases. Valid March 1 – April 30, 2020. Not valid on March 3 or April 7, 2020 (regular 15% off days). One coupon per purchase, only valid at St. Albert location (not valid at Safeway).
15 OFF %
any order over $150
Excludes milk, lottery and pharmacy purchases. Valid March 1 – April 30, 2020. Not valid on March 3 or April 7, 2020 (regular 15% off days). One coupon per purchase, only valid at St. Albert location (not valid at Safeway).
T8N March/April 2020 5
I CONVERSATIONS I
Pondering Over
PANELS
Solar power installations involve a hefty investment, but is the payback worth it? BY MARKWELL LYON 6 T8Nmagazine.com
CLEAN ENERGY HAS certainly come
a long way in fossil-rich Alberta. “Years ago, when people wanted to produce their ow n energy, they would maybe think about a little wind turbine, that would k i nd of wh i rl a nd ma ke th is really high-pitched noise when it spun,” says Benjamin Thibault, executive director at Solar Alberta. “At this point, nobody’s doing that anymore.” Improvements in technology, coupled with concerns about climate change and rising fossil fuel prices, have convinced a growing number of Albertans to turn to solar power for at least part of their energy needs. With that in mind, we take a look at the state of solar energy in Alberta, and how homeowners and businesses alike might benefit from its emergence.
Solar 101 Solar systems are actually pretty simple, consisting of just a few general components which follow a basic process. Photovoltaic (PV) modules, the tilted panels you see on roofs, are made of layers of silicon, a semiconductor that generates a current of DC electricity as it soaks up sunlight. This current then travels to at least one inverter, which converts it into usable AC electricity. Most of these systems are on-grid, meaning they are connected to the same electrical grid as everyone else—an important consideration, as solar energy obviously can only be produced at certain times. This is one reason why, at the present time, solar’s slice of the energy pie in Alberta is still fairly small. According to the Canada Energy Regulator (formerly the National Energy Board), most of the electricity in the province is produced from coal and natural gas. Only 13 percent comes from renewables, namely wind, hydro and biomass. Solar barely registers. Yet it’s a rapidly growing sector of energy production. While solar still contributes just a small part of production provincially, it’s an important contribution and one which has been booming recently.
SOLAR ENERGY IN ST. ALBERT “Solar collectors,” aka solar panels, are covered by the city’s Land Use Bylaw. This requires that two conditions are met: 1) The owner must obtain a building and electrical permit, and 2) The installation must comply with the Alberta Building Code and Canadian Electrical Code Solar collectors may be attached to roofs or walls, and are considered a part of a building when measuring height. For more information, visit stalbert.ca and download the 2012 Local Action Plan for Energy Conservation and Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions. Alberta’s Micro-Generation Regulation (alberta.ca/micro-generation.aspx) also provides useful info for the prospective solar buyer. According to the Alberta Electric System Operator, solar production represented some 1,100 sites and 5.5 MW of total installed capacity in April 2015. By October 2019, those numbers had grown to 4,600 sites and 55 MW. Large-scale projects are also contributing to this boom, such as the 130-MW facility recently being developed outside Claresholm, which will double solar power production in the province.
From 30 Above to 30 Below “That’s what demonstrates that the industry really matured over that timeframe and became a sector with its feet underneath it,” Thibault says. He thanks a drop in prices for the growth. Cheaper and more efficient module parts and increasing local competition between installers, have made solar systems more affordable than ever for homeowners and businesses. That’s good because between summer and winter, Alberta inflicts some extreme temperatures on its residents. Not coincidentally, we’re high energy users, given our greater heating and cooling needs. Fortunately, Alberta also happens to be one of the best spots in Canada for solar energy. The Solar Power Canada guide put out by EnergyHub ranks us behind only Saskatchewan in average “solar production potential,” a measurement that expresses the amount of energy that can be produced in a year
given the size of a system. The upshot is that because of the relatively high amount of solar irradiation (also known as insolation) here, a household needs fewer solar panels to produce a certain amount of power than other places. “There’s parts of southern Alberta that get as much or even a bit more annual solar energy insolation as Rio De Janeiro,” he says, crediting our dry environment and relative lack of cloud cover for what he calls “the best solar resource in the country.” The sun really shines in spring and summer, which sees one of two peak times of electricity usage in the province, when air conditioners drone on muggy summer days. While our air conditioning load, like our humidity, isn’t nearly as bad as many other places, air conditioner usage is still on the rise as more Albertans seek comfort from the dog-day heat. “Within the next couple of years we’ll actually become a summer-peaking province, whereas we’ve been a winterpeaking province historically,” Thibault says. “That also happens to be when old steam turbine facilities, like coal plants, tend to have trouble.” In other words, solar is at peak production just when demand is highest in the summer and just when conventional power plants are at risk of temporary shutdowns due to heat-related problems. T8N March/April 2020 7
Billing, Cost and Size Probably the most obvious drawback of solar is the simple fact that the sun doesn’t always shine. Utility companies deal with this in part through net-metering, in which they buy surplus power that small systems generate during peak production times. The excess is purchased at the same rate as the customer’s retail rate and fed back into the grid, and the customer receives credits in return. In the shorter, cloudier days of fall and winter, when production wanes, customers can use those credits to purchase power from the grid to cover their household demand. Net metering also attempts to answer another notable challenge of solar energy production: the electricity produced from solar dissipates if it isn’t stored right away. Off-grid systems in remote areas might use batteries, like the Tesla Powerwall. But as a single Powerwall can cost around $10,000 and more than one would be needed to fully power most homes, it’s a pricey option. For most homeowners, connection to the grid through a net-metering plan obviates the need for storage. While we’re on the topic of money, there’s also the setup cost. Despite prices coming down in recent years, solar systems are still a pretty penny to get going. Installers should be consulted for quotes, as every house and every solar system is unique to some degree. But for a rough estimate, a homeowner simply needs to calculate how much energy their household uses in a year. Annual energy use, in kilowatt hours (kWh), can then be divided by 1,276—the average annual number of full sunlight hours in Alberta—to determine the appropriate size of a system, in kilowatts (kW). According to EnergyHub, the average Alberta household consumes 7,200 kWh annually; this would require a system that produces 5.64 kW. If that’s difficult to picture, then a money amount might be easier: the average solar installation cost in Alberta is around $2.89 per installed watt, meaning a 5.64 kW system could have a bill of around $16,300. There’s also the question of size and space. Panels in smaller, residential 8 T8Nmagazine.com
systems vary in size from brand to brand, but on average are 1.6 m long by 1.0 m wide and weigh somewhere around 18 kg. A typical 6 kW system will use 20 solar panels, requiring around 40 m2 of roof space. The total weight of panels and other equipment works out to around 1.4 to 1.8 kg per square meter, which is easily manageable for most homes.
Taking the Long View It’s an investment, but one that Thibault and other proponents of solar power argue pays for itself over the lifespan of the hardware, generally estimated at 25 years. And these savings are available even when working at scale, unlike other forms of energy, which are cost competitive only at the utility level. “With solar, you can make it work at any level,” Thibault says. “Often the modules on a large solar farm are the same or similar to the modules you put on your roof. If you’re looking at producing energy on your own right now, you’re looking at solar to do it.” The long-term savings from solar come not just from the longevity of the equipment, but also from the energy independence that ideally results. Sure, solar energy is clean, but perhaps a more persuasive argument in favour is that it allows a household or business to hedge against future increases in energy prices. “I might not save any money next month on my solar panels,” he says, “but I get that rate locked in for the next 15 or 20 years, and that’s where I can hedge against my worry that electricity costs are going to be way higher in 2035 than they are right now.”
New Energy in Oil Country For those considering a home solar system, Thibault recommends doing research and exploring options, perhaps by visiting the Solar Alberta website (solaralberta.ca). The site has a directory of service providers throughout the province, as well as publications, seminars and other free resources that break down the science and benefits of solar power, as well as detailed
information on planning for a home system and choosing an installer. For Thibault, it’s not just the current state and growth of solar power that is exciting. Through technological innovation, the materials involved have made solar energy competitive and viable, and more of the same can be expected in coming years. He’s particularly excited about innovations that aren’t quite at commercial-scale yet, but will be before long. Solar siding and shingles are already on the market and coming down in price, and batteries are rapidly advancing, potentially solving one of the biggest challenges in solar energy: storing energy that would otherwise dissipate. Alberta’s love affair with oil, natural gas and coal might seem like a roadblock to adopting cleaner energy, but even in this Thibault sees opportunity. Our long history as an energy power, he argues, gives us a leg up. He cites the technical expertise of a large pool of engineers and technicians, and a rural base that already open to renewable energy as a way to get the most financially out of their land. Following in the wake of coal and natural gas and oil booms, solar and other forms of renewable energy might just be the next chapter in our energy story. “There’s a huge history to Alberta’s energy identity kind of transitioning and moving over time,” Thibault says. “That history makes it ripe for accommodating other energy sources into that identity.” t8n
I ARTS & CULTURE I
treasures From trash to
The thrifty, upcycling world of Bree Tetz BY PAULA E. KIRMAN; PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRENDA LAKEMAN
T8N T8NMarch/April March/April 2020 2020 99
THE OLD SAYING that one person's trash is another person's treasure couldn't be more apt for Bree
Tetz. The Edmonton resident has been thrifting, picking, and upcycling her way to a renovated home. She doesn't just go to garage sales or antique stores to purchase things and place them in her house—she puts her own unique touches on vintage items.
10 T8Nmagazine.com
Her favourite piece is a deconstructed chair that, in the hands of anyone else, would have likely ended up in a landfill. But after her alterations, the result is a unique creation that has been given new life. “It came from a home where the dog had gotten to the foam and fabric. But that was fine because I knew I was going to tear it apart,” says Tetz. “I started by removing all the fabric and stuffing, which was horse hair, dating the chair over 100 years old. I then removed all the nails—hundreds and hundreds—then re-stuffed and padded just the front of the chair leaving the back open so you could admire the craftsmanship of this chair. I added recycled drop cloth canvas and reupholstered the chair using furniture nails. I then used the foam from another upcycled chair and covered it with the same fabric.”
T8N March/April 2020 11
Tetz has only been working on her thrifty renovations since December of 2018. However, she has been thrifting since she was a young child with her mother “out of necessity,” something she has carried over as an adult on a strict budget. So, she began thrifting again for her home renovations. “I love finding unique items or items I can refinish,” she says. “Not only is each item unique, they each have a history, and a story, and usually have a higher quality of craftsmanship.” Tetz finds the quest for one-of-a-kind pieces every bit as exciting as the creative process. “I love the thrill of the hunt—looking and waiting for the perfect piece—and the finished project. There's nothing more rewarding than seeing your vision come to fruition.”
12 T8Nmagazine.com 12 T8Nmagazine.com
She also stresses that thrifting, picking, and upcycling is important when being conscious of sustainability. “By purchasing vintage and used pieces, we are reducing the amount of waste headed to our landfills and refusing the need for cheap, disposable furniture,” Tetz says. “This also rings true for other items as well. My entire home, minus a few pieces, has all been thrifted, including linens, small appliances, kitchen wares, pottery, utensils, glassware, artwork, and even my family's clothing. The list goes on. I think each little bit helps reduce our footprint.” t8n Besides showing her work on Instagram (@mylittleblackandwhitehouse) Bree is a vendor at the Blue Jar Antique Mall in Edmonton, with a booth where she shares her upcycled and found pieces. She also does commissioned pieces by special request.
T8N March/April 2020 13
Expertise, Experience & Dedication Caruana adds a focus on quality to those bathroom & kitchen projects
E
very house is different and there are as many reasons to renovate as there are homeowners. Some may be looking to update the styles and convenience of their home, or they may renovate to make a house more attractive to buyers and increase its potential resale value. Others may simply want more space or light or a better flow in certain rooms. Whatever the reason, Caruana Interiors and Contracting helps guide clients through the entire process. As owner Neville Ward explains, every house is as different and unique as the people who live in it. “People usually have kind of an idea of what they want to do,” says Ward. “but they don’t really know where to start.” That’s where Caruana comes in. The St. Albert company brings expertise, experience and a dedication to quality work and safety to each reno job. As for which renovation jobs Ward is approached by homeowners for advice, bathrooms and kitchens top the list.
BATHROOMS
Caruana Interiors has special expertise in bathrooms, their most common renovation. Often, the bathroom is the starting point of a full-scale home renovation. As it turns out, there’s a lot you can do with a bathroom. Some homeowners simply look to upgrade what they already have. “New vanity, new flooring, new bathtub, maybe a nicer shower faucet or toilet, that kind of stuff,” Ward says. Better lighting and ventilation, as well as improved layout, are other common bathroom renovation needs on the minds of homeowners. Such jobs may be modest, but a few clients opt for a complete overhaul. “Maybe this bathroom’s not very effective, or it’s not laid out very nicely, and they want to completely blow it out and revamp it from scratch and put in something they really love,” adds Ward. This is where things can really get creative, as a little space can be sacrificed here or there for things like a luxury tub, a longer vanity or double sinks. Like renovations in general, costs can vary. That’s not surprising for a project
14 T8Nmagazine.com
like a bathroom remodel, when done right, is an investment that can pay for itself over time. Ward estimates that the average customer spends between $18,000 and $22,000 on a typical fullscale bathroom renovation. Adding more upscale hardware will also add value. The good news is that whether your bathroom reno is midrange or luxury, a homeowner planning to sell can expect a good return on the cost—around 60 percent, according to Remodeling magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report. Like all remodeling jobs that Caruana carries out, the work begins with an in-home consultation. Quotes are never given sight unseen—the experts at Caruana want to get to know the house before a hammer is ever lifted, just as they want to understand the owner’s motivations. “We go to a person’s house, and we actually see the space,” Ward says. “We have to see what we’re dealing with, how old it is, and what condition it’s in.” Caruana’s methodical approach to every home ensures that the work matches the owner’s vision and is carried out in a safe, careful manner.
KITCHENS Caruana approaches kitchen renovations the same way. The heart of the home, kitchens are another popular renovation target. That’s not too surprising, as it’s a room where we spend a lot of time when we’re home, and an outdated or inconvenient kitchen will stand out for all the wrong reasons. Though kitchen renovations can be big, complicated jobs, homeowners often find that they’re necessary every 20 to 25 years, when styles and amenities start reaching the end of their usefulness. “Kitchens are definitely up there,” Ward says. “Not quite as popular as bathrooms, just because they cost more.” While a small job with just a few updates can be done for $10,000 or less, a typical floor-to-ceiling job might start around $50,000. What you get in return, though, is an entirely new and updated kitchen. “That would include a new floor, removing drywall, and lots of times we replace the whole ceiling,” Ward explains. “All new cabinets, backsplash, appliances, that sort of stuff.” Kitchen renos often involve a lot of rearranging. Appliances might be moved around, or a wall taken out to open things up. Often, a full electrical rewire is necessary. New appliances, modern cabinets and lighting can work together to create a fresh and modern look that improves the entire home. As with bathrooms, a kitchen upgrade can also reap some nice returns. Many experts rank kitchens highly when it comes to resale value. In fact, Remodeling magazine’s Cost vs. Value Report in 2018 placed kitchens fifth among types of renovations, recouping about 81 percent of the renovation cost. While that’s a nice figure to keep in mind, Ward recommends that homeowners not worry too much about resale, whatever their reasons for renovating. After all, it’s difficult to predict what the next owner’s tastes will be. “I’d say, first and foremost, people have to do a renovation for themselves. It’s more important that something is clean and looks well maintained, then be over-the-top or fully renovated.” Just like buying a house, the decision to renovate your home is a huge one. Rest assured that no matter your reasons or the size of the job, the professionals at Caruana can help bring your remodeling dreams to life and ensure that you get the full personal value out of your renovations.
780.935.5831 f caruanainteriors.ca 9, 8 Riel Drive, St. Albert, AB Licensed & Insured for your protection Alberta Prepaid Contractor License 320821 Serving St. Albert & Edmonton since 2007
This sponsored content was produced in partnership between Caruana Interiors & Contracting and T8N magazine. T8N March/April 2020 15
I THE EIGHTS I
Repurposing RETAILERS Check out items for the green-minded, crafty type in all of us BY GENE KOSOWAN
16 T8Nmagazine.com
IT SOUNDS LIKE a stretch to even
suggest that weekend activities like hitting garage sales, antique stores a nd th rift shops is one solution to climate change. The logic goes along the lines of one item purchased from any of those establishments is one less object relegated to a landfill. Pinterest recently indicated the trend is catching on big-time, with searches for those wares having jumped by 446 percent over the past year. Views concerning recycled items (those broken down and blended with new materials) and upcycled products (items repurposed into an entirely new creation) have spiked by more than 2,000 percent.
a collection of Aboriginal crafts that are popular among regulars. (everafterantiques.com)
Gary C. Sharpe Antiques & Decoration (St. Albert)
The capital region isn’t immune to this movement, and as proof, here’s a look at a few outlets.
One of the more unique services that specialize in rejuvenating old items, this establishment has a reputation for restoring antiquated products from the 20th century into finished works with a modern touch. Sharpe tends to work with found items like chests and furniture that fit his own wow factor criteria. (garycsharpe.com)
Barnyard Salvage (Stony Plain)
Home Reusable (Edmonton)
Backyard builders looking to create a shed or greenhouse without killing any trees can head to this company that specializes in reclaiming wood from abandoned structures. Bent on eco-friendliness, Barnyard features materials for such purposes as hardwood flooring, support beams and mantels. (barnyardsalvage.com)
Blue Jar Antique Mall (Edmonton) This gallery has only been around for a decade, but already it’s a hot-spot for unique artistic creations, several of them upcycled by artists serious about eco-friendliness. Some 7,000 feet of space is dedicated to those wares from restored furniture to original works of art. (bluejarantiquemall.ca)
Offering a wide selection of reclaimed building materials, this outlet provides an incentive for customers to contribute to environmental sustainability and save money at the same time. Inventory changes quite often, but you can still expect a wide array of items from electrical and hardware to antiques and interior décor. (homereuse.com)
Julie Anne Hage Art and Design (St. Albert) This studio’s run by an owner who’s been creating art via upcycling long before there was a name for it. A big
booster of recycling, reusing and repurposing discarded materials to create a unique and functional work of art. Creations include clocks made from driftwood and candle stands upcycled from old speaker casings. (facebook.com/ jahartanddesign)
One Man’s Treasure Antique Emporium (Stony Plain) It helps to check this shop regularly, since the inventory here changes quite rapidly, whether you’re looking for furnishings or crafts to brighten your castle’s interior. While the focus is on antiques, the store often brings in newer wares from 40 regional vendors, some with backgrounds in repurposing older items. (www.onemanstreasure.ca)
Raggs to Riches (Spruce Grove) Artisans tend to be on the cutting edge of repurposing old items and this shop is no exception. Proudly displaying an eclectic collection of good that were either hand-crafted or redesigned by the company owner and staff, the focus is on local products. For those inspired to do more than just purchase what’s in the store, workshops are also available. (raggstoriches.ca) t8n
Ever After Antiques and Collectibles (Alberta Beach) If there’s anything that qualifies as repurposed in this space, it better have a vibe of authenticity running through it. Ever After is big on nostalgia and a look inside proves it, with old and refinished furniture that recalls those yesteryear periods. There’s not only several novelty items that sell quickly, but also T8N March/April 2020 17
I FOOD & GATHERINGS I
Going Veggie-centric How you can make it easy eating green RECIPES & STYLING BY SHIMA ZONNEVELD PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRENDA LAKEMAN
FOOD CULTURE IS ever changing with its
current emphasis on plant based meals. Meatless Mondays are spreading to meatless any day or perhaps every day. The following recipes are just a snapshot of all the delicious veggie-centric meals that can happen in your kitchen!
18 T8Nmagazine.com
The richness of the potato pie is balanced out when topped with a light and bright salad made with any available greens and a dressing that highlights that dill flavour.
Potato-Parm Galette with Greens Galettes are a rustic pie that can be sweet or savoury. This galette is inspired by dill pickle chips! Galette:
2 tbsp. chopped fresh dill, divided in half
8 oz. of store-bought or homemade pie dough
pinch of Maldon salt
2 Yukon gold potatoes, very thinly sliced (mandolin works best) 3 tbsp. pickle juice 1 tbsp. chopped fresh dill ¼ tsp. kosher salt ¼ tsp. ground black pepper 2 tbsp. grated parmesan 1 egg 1 tbsp. water Green Dilly Salad ¼ c. red wine vinegar ¼ c. good olive oil ¼ tsp. ground black pepper ½ tsp. kosher salt
4 generous cups of greens (arugula, spinach, spring greens etc.)
In a blender mix together the vinegar, olive oil, pepper, salt and half of the dill to make the salad dressing. Toss together the rest of the dill and the greens and lightly dress with the dressing. Sprinkle the salad with a pinch of Maldon salt. Preheat oven to 375ºF. Line a sheet pan with parchment and set aside. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie dough to a rough 8-inch circle (it can be very rough, galettes are rustic). Combine the potato slices, pickle juice, dill, salt, pepper and parmesan in a large bowl.
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Using a pastry brush, spread the egg wash around the perimeter of the rolled out pie crust, covering about an inch all the way around. Set the egg wash aside, you will need this for the top of the galette at the end. Starting one inch in from the edge, layer the potato slices in a pinwheel to cover the inner surface of the galette. Now start folding up the edges of the pie crust to cover the potatoes, you will still see pota-toes in the middle. Also, rustic is great for a galette! Then brush the crust with the egg wash and sprinkle the top of the galette with a nice finishing salt like Maldon. Bake for 27-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Top each galette with one cup of the Green Dilly Salad and serve. T8N March/April 2020 19
Warm Sweet Potato and Quinoa salad with a Cashew Drizzle Sweet potato is a delicious, hearty and healthy vegetable that can be incorporated into a plant based meal in many different ways. The warmth from the sweet potato and quinoa paired with the creamy cashew dressing and the freshness of the greens is a great cosy night meal. This recipe also works well at room temperature, perfect for next day’s lunch! 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed 1 tbsp. olive oil 1 tsp. kosher salt ½ tsp. ground black pepper 2 c. chopped arugula 1 c. cooked quinoa Preheat oven to 375ºF. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and toss the sweet potato cubes with the olive oil, salt and pepper. Cook for 20-25 minutes until the cubes are tender and browning. Turn off the oven and keep them warm by covering with tinfoil. On a serving plate, arrange the arugula, scoop on the cooked quinoa and sprinkle with the sweet potato cubes, top with the cashew drizzle. This would also work as a Buddha bowl style meal.
CASHEW DRIZZLE ¼ c. cashew butter ½ c. full fat coconut milk zest of 1 lime ½ tbsp. brown sugar
1 tbsp. soy sauce 2 tbsp. fresh cilantro 2 green onions, roughly chopped 1-3 tbsp. warm water
Combine the above ingredients into a blender to make this delicious, creamy dressing. The variation in water added is purely a personal consistency choice, thin versus thick dressing.
20 T8Nmagazine.com 20 T8Nmagazine.com
Sesame Noodle Cups
Nutty Vegetable Stir-fry
Warm noodles, crunchy add-ins all wrapped up in a butter lettuce leaf cup. A great portable meal when you are on the go!
This quick and easy stir-fry delivers on flavour and has so many crunchy vegetables that when paired with rice is texturally satisfying. Feel free to swap out different veggies for what you have on hand.
1 c. grated carrots
2 tbsp. rice vinegar
1 red pepper, thin slivers
2 tbsp. grated ginger
½ c. edamame, cooked
zest of ½ lime
1 tbsp. cilantro, chopped 1 head of butter lettuce (may not use it all) ⅔ c. chopped peanuts, unsalted and divided 2 tbsp. warm water
½ tbsp. sesame oil
½ c. snow peas, ends removed
1 tbsp. brown sugar
1 tbsp. of fresh ginger, grated or finely chopped
1 tbsp. avocado oil
1 tbsp. hoisin sauce
½ c. very thinly sliced carrot medallions, mandolin works best
1 tsp. sesame oil
½ tbsp. rice vinegar
pinch of chili flakes
⅛ tsp. dried chili flakes
½ pkg. of whole wheat spaghettini, cooked
1 tbsp. soy sauce
In a blender combine half of the peanuts, water, rice vinegar, ginger, lime zest, brown sugar, avocado oil, sesame oil and chili flakes. Blend until combined. The peanuts will leave this dressing on the crunchy side! In a large bowl, mix the carrots, pepper, edamame and cilantro. Add in the warm noodles and dress the salad. Put a scoop of salad in each lettuce cup, roll up and enjoy! This also works if the noodles are room temperature so great for a busy, activity filled night.
1 bunch of asparagus, heads removed and stems cut into 3 pieces
½ c. cashews, toasted and coarsely chopped 1 tbsp. sesame seeds, toasted 1 tbsp. cilantro, chopped
Heat a large frying pan over medium to slightly over medium heat, add in the sesame oil and heat until shimmery. While the oil is heating, in a small bowl whisk together the hoisin, rice vinegar, chili flakes and soy sauce. Next add in the ginger and stir for a minute. Add in the asparagus, carrots and snow peas and stir for 2-4 minutes. Stir in the hoisin mixture and continue cooking for another 3 minutes. Serve warm with brown rice, chopped cashews, sesame seeds and fresh cilantro.
T8N March/April 2020 21
Broccoli Rice Soft Tacos This recipe gives a texturally similar experience to a beef-based taco. Riced broccoli is the star of this meal combined with fresh flavours like cilantro and lime. Bright and delicious! 2 c. riced broccoli 1 c. cooked brown rice 1 tsp. whole coriander seed ⅛ tsp. chili powder 1 shallot, finely chopped 1 tbsp. olive oil 1 tsp. kosher salt ½ tsp. ground black pepper zest of 1 lime, divided 2 tbsp. chopped cilantro, divided 1c. sour cream 1 chopped avocado 1 c. grated Monterey jack cheese salsa lime wedges
Ricing Broccoli: Remove the woody stems of the broccoli, do a rough chop of the broccoli heads and pop into the food processor. Pulse until the broccoli resembles rice grains.
CILANTRO CREAM Stir the one cup of sour cream with the other half of both the cilantro and the lime zest. Add in salt and pepper to taste. In a warm, toasted tortilla, put a scoop of the broccoli rice mixture in the centre and then add to personal preference, chopped avocado, cheese, salsa, cilantro cream and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten everything!
22 T8Nmagazine.com 22 T8Nmagazine.com
In a small frying pan over medium heat, toast the coriander seed until fragrant. Using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle grind the coriander and use ½ tsp. for the recipe. In a large sauce pan, over medium heat sauté the shallot until soft. Add in the chili powder and ground coriander, toss to coat the shallot in the spices. Next add in the riced broccoli, cooked brown rice, salt and pepper. Turn the heat down to medium-low and let those flavours develop for 6-8 minutes. Towards the end, stir in half of the lime zest and half of the chopped cilantro. While that is happening, either in a small frying pan on medium or in the oven set on broil, toast the tortilla shells. t8n
I THEN & NOW I
A Legacy of LANES How St. Albert’s southeastern streets got their names BY MARKWELL LYON
ROUGHLY BORDERED BY the
Atkinson Place
Sturgeon in the north, the Henday in the south, and St. Albert Trail in the west, St. Albert’s Southeast developed rapidly starting in the 1950s and 1960s. During this time, as St. Albert grew into a city, it looked to its past and its historical figures for naming inspiration. Today, we can see much of this history in the streets in neighbourhoods like Akinsdale, Braeside, Kingswood and others.
Susie Atkinson arrived in St. Albert in 1917. She graduated from Olds Agricultural College in 1925 and became a successful farmer and cattle breeder. At a local Sunday school in the 1930s, she began a system of lending out books, for three months at a time, that grew into the town’s first library.
Bishop Street This street in Braeside honours Bishop Emile Legal, O.M.I. Hailing from France, he arrived in St. Albert in 1881. He was named bishop in 1902 and archbishop in 1913.
Akins Drive
Louis Campbell was an early Métis settler in St. Albert who is mentioned in the parish records. He was here by 1863 and married a local Métis woman named Marie Callihoo.
Corriveau Avenue
Cunningham Road Named after not just one person, but a family of Métis settlers. John Cunningham came from Manitoba and settled in the area, before dying in a buffalo hunt in 1868. His sons had various adventures. Sam and Alfred served in the St. Albert Mounted Rifles during the Riel Rebellion, Henry was elected to St. Albert’s first town council in 1904, and Edward was ordained as a Catholic priest.
Arcand Drive
HEBERT ROAD
Campbell Road
An early businessman in St. Albert, Mr. Corriveau with his partner Jules Chave ran a hardware store and blacksmith shop at #18 Vital Avenue.
Named after Lorne Akins, who had a distinguished career in St. Albert as a farmer and public servant. He settled the Braeside and Forest Lawn areas in 1918 and would later serve as chairman of the school board and town councilor. He died in 1971, after which the newly developing subdivision of Akinsdale was named after him.
Named after early settler Alfred Arcand and his family. Arcand came west from Quebec with the Northwest Mounted Police, later settling in the St. Albert area in 1880 on River Lot 39. In addition to farming, Mr. Arcand taught French and English and helped establish the local Conservative Party.
first town council in 1904 before rising to mayor in 1909. That same year he was elected to his first term as MLA, a position he would hold until 1921 and again from 1926-1930. At just over five feet tall, he was nicknamed the “Little Napolean of St. Albert.”
Forest Road Boudreau Road Quebec-born Lucien Boudreau migrated to Saskatchewan in 1893 and Alberta two years later. He was elected to St. Albert’s
Named after Jean Forest, who came to Alberta in 1947 at the age of 21. She separate school board trustee in
STOP
T8N March/April 2020 23
I MEET YOU THERE I Edmonton and the first woman to serve as its chairperson. Later she served on the first Human Rights Commission in the province, and from 1978 to 1982 she was Chancellor of the University of Alberta. She represented Edmonton as a senator from 1996 to 1998. Jean Forest Leadership Academy in Edmonton is also named after her.
Hebert Road Named after businessman and politician Cheri Hebert. Upon St. Albert becoming a town in 1904, he was elected as its first mayor. He served for three years before deciding not to run again.
Kingswood Boulevard Named after the Kingswood neighbourhood that it loops through. Before development began in the 1980s, the area was farmland and popular in winter with cross country skiers in town.
Poirier Avenue Dr. Richard Poirier was a local doctor and, from 1938 to 1945, Health Officer. He led the St. Albert Community League upon its formation in the 1940s, which built the St. Albert Community Hall. Dr. Poirier was elected mayor in 1943.
Poundmaker Road Named after Poundmaker, a Plains Cree leader, so named for his ability to corral buffalo in pounds. He came to prominence during the 1885 Rebellion, in which he led his people against the Canadian government. He died in prison in 1886 at the age of 44.
Princeton Crescent While it’s not known for sure, the name of this Pineview street, which loops around a park of the same name, might be inspired by Antonio Prince. From 1891 to 1894, he represented St. Albert in the territorial legislature in Regina, and in 1898 he opened a law office here.
Veness Road Named after William Veness, who grew up in the St. Albert area. Besides running a service station from 1949 to 1976, he was town councilor from 1949 to 1951, and mayor from 1951 to 1965. During his time as mayor, St. Albert’s population grew fivefold. t8n 24 T8Nmagazine.com
You name it, THEY FRAME IT
Mr. Frame offers border options galore BY RUDY HOWELL
IF YOU HAPPEN to have swords,
Second World Wa r weapons, shark skeletons, or 2,000-yearold Pompeiian vases lying around your house in need of framing, we know just the place for you. Since 2015, Mister Frame, located at 2009 Tudor Glen, has seen— and framed—it all. “As a single mother, I don’t get to travel a lot, so I’m able to travel vicariously through our customers,” says manager, Alicia Marangoni.
A family-run custom picture framing business, Mister Frame offers a large selection of custom frames, matting, and conservation materials designed to ensure the longevity of your artwork and possessions. Aside from the obvious, the store also provides printing and digital photo restoration services as well as carries home décor items and needle craft supplies, making it one of two stores left in St. Albert along with Michaels to supply the latter. “We’re somewhat of a niche market,” Marangoni says.
Longtime residents of St. Albert might still think of the current operation as Prints Galore, the space’s previous inhabitant for 40 years. But the venerable establishment was also an inspiration for Mister Frame owner Wes Pigeon to start the business that has since replaced it. In order to receive a work experience credit in high school, Pigeon found a job at Prints Galore which sold art prints and provided expertise in custom framing. Upon completing his required hours, Pigeon was offered a permanent position at the shop. It was during this time that he discovered his passion for the art of framing and realized that he one day wanted to start his own custom framing business. That day came in 2004, when the first Mister Frame storefront was opened on 107 Avenue NW. As his business in Edmonton began to thrive, Pigeon set his sights on an expansion back to where it all began: 2009 Tudor Glen. Always wanting to have run Prints Galore himself, the timing was never quite right. But now well financially positioned, Pigeon was able to make his old boss a successful offer on the business in June, 2015. The shop operated under the name Prints Galore for two more years as an ode to days gone by; but was renamed Mister Frame in 2017 in order to simplify the businesses affairs. Today, Mister Frame has its trade down to a science. The first thing customers are asked when looking to frame something is whether they have a particular design in mind. Next comes the option of matting, which refers to adding a thin, flat piece of decorative paper- or fabric-based material in between the artwork and the frame. Followed by the matting is the frame itself. Customers can discuss designs from scratch or search through a variety of prototypes, pairing them with different colours and styles of matting until a desired combination has been chosen. Lastly, depending on how valuable your piece is, staff will recommend whether to use a screen of regular glass or of conservation glass which protects the colours and quality of the work. “It can be a bit overwhelming, but we are very patient, and we are happy to explain the process to anybody,” Marangoni says.
While a large percentage of Mister Frame’s business in St. Albert comes from the local art community whose talent Marangoni says “constantly amazes” her, the shop’s clientele also includes St. Albert Fire and Rescue Services, the Government of Alberta, and The Sports Corporation, an Edmonton-based hockey agency. In fact, hockey jerseys and memorabilia frequent the shop almost as often as diplomas, degrees, and traditional artwork. Last summer, the business was hired to frame Jarome Iginla’s jersey for the renaming ceremony of Akinsdale Arena to Jarome Iginla Arena. “We really have a huge range of customers from artists to businesses to little old ladies with their needle work. I love it,” Marangoni says. The loyalty of Mister Frame’s clients and customers is what has allowed the shop to continue thriving even as the business of custom framing slowly shrinks. Twenty years ago, there were “half a dozen”
similar outlets in St. Albert which all kept busy, Marangoni says. “The demand for custom framing has definitely gone down and I think that can be attributed to big-box stores and online art purchasing.” Nowadays, people can purchase pre-framed artwork both in-store and online for a fraction of the price that custom framing would cost. However, this trend of mass-production has only helped to inspire creativity right here within our community. With a variety of art exhibitions that take place year-round at City Hall and the Enjoy Centre, Marangoni says she is starting to see more and more “diverse” original work come through the shop. In the future, Marangoni wants to create a gallery within the store showcasing local art framed by the business. “I would like to give our customers a connection to those artists and open up the community a little more by working together.” t8n
Mister Frame at a glance: Location: 2009 Tudor Glen Phone: 780-458-4999 Specialty: Three-dimensional framing, needle craft supplies Fun fact: Each frame is hand-crafted individual by professionals in Edmonton and Calgary T8N March/April 2020 25
I SPOTLIGHT I
Bark
AT THE RANCH It’s nothing but the best for Fido and felines at this facility BY PAULA E. KIRMAN
26 T8Nmagazine.com
PET OWNERS OFTEN dread having to leave their
beloved pooch or feline friends behind when travelling, or left alone during long working hours. However, it can be hard to find a good (and affordable) pet-sitter or boarding options. The Ranch Pet Care is a solution that provides daycare, boarding and – for people with extra-busy schedules – transportation to and from the facility. “With just about 12 years behind us, we have had made so many special connections with pets and their owners,” says Brent Jenkins, one of the owners of the Ranch. “We have tried incredibly hard to create a home away from home for our guests. We love watching the pups fly out of their front door to board the bark and ride shuttle or sprint from their owner’s car down to our office door waiting to get in to play.” Located just northwest of Edmonton, The Ranch has been operating since June of 2008. It's a family business started by the Jenkins (Gary, Judy, Kim, Neil, and Brent). “We grew up with our dogs being a central part of our family,” says Brent. “We would watch our friend’s
and family’s animals while they were away, volunteer to walk dogs in the neighbourhood, and just do anything we could to be around pets of all kinds. As we grew older, creating The Ranch was just the natural progression and application of our caring and passion for pets.” The Ranch offers boarding and daycare services – and more – for dogs and cats. “With 26 different play spaces, our canine guests can enjoy playtime in a small group catered to their behaviour and play style,” says Brent. Offerings include sports packages, boot camps, and pampering services that can be scheduled on any visit. Guests can also enjoy individual activities such as leash walks, doggie tennis and swimming. And for cats? “Our feline guests sleep and eat in their own individual condo, but have full access to our spacious adventure area and kitty garden during the day,” says Brent. There is also extra fun in the summer, when dogs and cats can also enjoy poolside parties, where the bigger pups dive in off the side to chase a ball, while some of the smaller swimmers are put on floaties to enjoy the water in the sunshine. The staff at The Ranch, not surprisingly, are people who love animals and are in it for the long haul. “When it comes to building a strong relationship with our clients, we believe that stability is extremely important for both pets and their owners,” says Brent. “Familiar faces help to create a comfortable transition for each pet. Our care team consists of experienced handlers, managerial staff with degrees in animal sciences, and individuals who are currently enrolled in educational programs with the goal to pursue a career in animal services. We also assist in providing placement and work experience programs for students in post secondary animal care programs.” And according to Brent, business is booming. “We had a great year in 2019 and are looking forward to the same in 2020. We are continuing to grow and are always looking to improve and add new services for our clientele. We some exciting plans for the upcoming year!”
BARK + RIDE The Ranch's most popular and unique amenity is a boarding/daycare transportation service that accommodates all breeds and sizes. “Bark + Ride picks up and drops off your pet for scheduled boarding or daily for daycare,” says Brent. “With a variety of passes and options, B+R transportation can make any visit to the Ranch that much more convenient. Our daily daycare program currently operates in St. Albert, while we offer boarding pick-up and drop-off services to the entire greater Edmonton area.” The Ranch offers a number of Bark + Ride packages that include full daycare days and transportation to and from The Ranch. Pick-ups can be scheduled as early as 6 a.m. and as late as 6:30 p.m. • 10 Pack (Single Dog) $350 ($35/day) • 10 Pack (Double Dog) $399 ($40/day)
• 20 Pack (Single Dog) $599 ($30/day) • 20 Pack (Double Dog) $699 ($35/day)
Boarding pick-up and drop-off is $30 within St. Albert city limits, and $50 for Edmonton and surrounding areas. Pick-ups and drop-offs for overnight boarding is available for Spruce Grove as well and is a $50 round trip. Same-day pick-up and drop-off service is only currently available in St. Albert. While the Ranch provides its services for dogs and cats, they have assisted in caring for a number of different types of animals (such as birds, guinea pics, hamsters, and rabbits) through working with a variety of organizations. t8n
Address: 54302 Range Road 261, Sturgeon County Phone: 780-459-2746 Web: theranchpetcare.com Instagram: @theranchkennels T8N March/April 2020 27
I DOWN TIME I
Wordy
Renos
28 T8Nmagazine.com
PROBABLY ONE OF the most frustrating tasks when it
comes to renovating your castle is looking for all your tools to get the job done. With that in mind, we have a similar quest: finding all the hidden words in this puzzle that have to do with all that makeover madness. Good luck and happy hunting! t8n
VOTING IS NOW CLOSED Coming ! this Spring
2020 Read the results in the
MAY ISSUE of T8N
T8Nmagazine.com
summercity.ca
Contact us for information about advertising: 780 940 6212 SUMMERCITY.CA
Sign up for our E-newsletter for details on our 2020 GUIDE and up to date information and prizes! T8N March/April 2020  29
