Special Features - Best of Red Deer 2013

The Best est of

Red Deer Reader’s Choice Awards 2013

NATURAL BEAUTY – Bower Ponds is an example of one of the City’s finest parks that Red Deerians can enjoy some time in.

It garnered the silver for the Best Outdoor Recreation Facility.

Photo Illustration by Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

2 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

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Red Deer Express 3

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Dawe lands Most Beloved Red Deerian Long time local historian is gearing up for the release of his new book

CITY’S FINEST - Historian Michael Dawe relaxes in Heritage Square near the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery. Dawe has taken the top spot in the Most Beloved Red Deerian category for the third consecutive year.

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express

L

ocal historian Michael Dawe has landed gold in the Best of Red Deer’s Most Beloved Red Deerian category – for the third consecutive time.

He is, as always, humbled and grateful for the special honour and responds to it with his warm and typical good-natured humour.

“I’m a little astonished – and I’m touched,” he says with a smile. “I really appreciate the honour. I don’t think of myself in those terms, I just think of myself as a member of the community.”

He’s indeed passionate about his work, which is of course all about delving into the rich tapestry of the past and Red Deer’s unique place within that historical framework. There is virtually no corner of this region Dawe can’t offer insightful perspective and background about.

It’s also a personally fulfilling career that he enjoys on so many levels.

“You get a lot of rewards out of it personally. You get to know a lot more people and many more things about your community.”

Dawe, 57, is Red Deer born and bred, and his roots in the community certainly run deep. As he speaks, his pride in the Central Alberta region shines through as well.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Much of his historical interest stems from his genuine interest in people and learning their stories.

He’s a fifth generation Albertan on both sides of his family and fifth generation Red Deerian on his mother’s side of the family.

And with his folks both being schoolteachers, plus many of his other relatives working as educators, conversations around the house often tapped into topics of a historic nature.

Many well-known local names – Joseph Welsh, Annie L. Gaetz and Ethel Taylor – aren’t just names to Dawe. They were fascinating people that were family friends.

“So there’s an extra meaning there.”

Looking back, Dawe graduated with a degree in history from the University of Alberta in 1976.

He first worked at the museum for one year and then eventually became archivist for the City of Red Deer – a position he held for 30 years.

He is currently the curator of history at the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery and is also busy finishing up a book on the City’s history called Remarkable Red Deer. It is set to be released this summer.

The release also comes during a special year – Red Deer’s 100th anniversary of obtaining city status. Ongoing centennial celebrations are making the book’s release that much more meaningful.

Dawe is thrilled about sharing the project with the community – he’s been working on the book for about three years. Besides the stories, about 300 photos will be featured as well.

“This one is different in that the other books we’ve done have tended to be chronological histories. This one is more of a topical history,” he explains. “The goal was to give as much about the ‘why’ of a story as the ‘what’ and ‘when’.”

Chapters run the gamut from dealing with land and landscapes which talks about the unique flora and fauna of this area, and also how Red Deer has, for well over a century, had a very strong naturalist movement.

“That continues to this day with the Red Deer River Naturalists and a lot of other environmental groups.”

Another chapter focuses on change and conflict in the early years, and includes an exploration of the local histories of the Metis and aboriginal peoples. A chapter entitled ‘Having a Good Time in the Hard Times’ focuses on what people did for entertainment back in the early days, particularly when times were tough and money was tight.

“In the 1890s, Red Deer had less than 300 people. But we had three theatre companies. And we had an opera house before the First World War.” Movie theatres were also

established early on as well. Remarkable Red Deer also outlines sports teams over the course of Red Deer’s history.

“The whole idea of the story is what do you do when you don’t have much money and you don’t have the modern technologies to entertain yourself ?

“What did people do for entertainment and socialization?”

Dawe also writes about the impact of war on the community over the years as well, including the First and Second World Wars, the Korean War and the Boer War. Often when people hear the word ‘veteran’ they think primarily of the two world wars, but Dawe takes the story much further and discusses those who have served in Afghanistan, for example. “We have veterans in Red Deer who are in their 20s.”

Meanwhile, Dawe is savouring a particularly meaningful season in his life. The City he is so devoted to is in the midst of marking its centennial, and he’s on the brink of presenting a new book which celebrates and commemorates Red Deer in just weeks. Being named Most Beloved Red Deerian is also wonderfully affirming in its own way too.

“What’s really nice about it is that it’s coming from the community and that’s what, to me, makes it even more of an honour.” editor@reddeerexpress.com

4 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

With Sincere Thanks Red Deer!

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Beloved Red Deerian 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

My sincere thanks to the readers of the Red Deer Express for voting me Red Deer’s Most Beloved Citizen for the third year in a row. I am deeply honoured to receive this wonderful award, especially as it comes from you, the public.

Michael Dawe

Thank you Red Deer for voting us the #1 Tanning Salon for 7 consecutive years! eer f Red D Best o INNER W D L GO

TOP BARBERSHOP - Kristie Bayley, assistant manager at Tommy Gun’s Original Barber Shop, poses at the business which won gold for Best Barber Shop in Red Deer.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

lon

Tanning Sa

’ eaders 2013 R Awards Choice

Try our brand new, fully automated Spray Tan booth that gives an exotic Mediterranean color!!

Official spray tan ta booth used by ta

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would like to take this opportunity to Ärst congratulate all of the businesses, citizens and organizations that have been voted the Best in Red Deer. Whether your business was voted Gold, Silver or Bronze, just to place in your category is such an accomplishment when you are up against so many competitors. Being voted the best is a testament to the hard work and dedication to customer service that our local businesses and their staff put forth every day.

South Location #600-3020 22nd St.

403.358.5900

Also, a big thank you to all of our dedicated readers that took the time to vote either by entering their vote on our printed newspaper ballot or through our online survey. This is my third year being involved in the Best of Red Deer and once again it amazes me how many people are involved in the voting process. It really shows that people appreciate when a business or service goes above and beyond in customer service.

North Location 510-6730 Taylor Dr.

403.356.1510

Thank You Red Deer & Central Alberta

The Red Deer Express prides itself on being Red Deer’s community paper and as such we try our best to keep the people of Red Deer aware of what is going on in our community. However, the printing of the Best of Red Deer would not be possible without the winning businesses, citizens and organizations that have participated in this annual special feature.

We get to the botto bottom of plumbing problems!

When you see the certiÄcate the winners proudly display in their business, take a moment to congratulate them on being the best. They deserve the recognition and we encourage them to keep up the great work and continue to make our City one of the best.

publisher@reddeerexpress.com

Plumber 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

our Every week when the Express is delivered to your d door it is because of the businesses in Red Deer that support our publication and our community.

Tracey Scheveers

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

bing eating m u l P &H

#108-172 Clearview Drive Red Deer County, AB 403-343-8407 www.cjplumbingandheating.ca

Red Deer Express 5

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Thank You Red Deer & Central Alberta!

It is through the continued support of our staff, suppliers and trades that we are able to contribute as much as we do to charitable projects throughout Central Alberta. Thanks to everyone who helps out.

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Corporate Citizen 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Phil Neufeld, Corporate Citizen

#140 4731-61 street Red Deer, Alberta 403-341-5933 TrueLineHomes.com

Thanks to all those who voted us #1 Billiards Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Place to Shoot Pool 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

CLOTHING QUEENS - Jodie Jamieson and Venus Crump, co-owners of The Pink Paire, show off their latest arrivals to their already blossoming array of women’s wear. The business won bronze Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express for Best Women’s Clothing Store.

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6 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

A Big Thank You Red Deer!

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Best Photographer 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

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GORGEOUS GOWNS - Sarah Smith, of Your Wedding Place, displays a Mori Lee crystal embroidered Venus Lace wedding dress with a ruffled skirt. The business won silver for Best Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express Bridal Wear Store.

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Red Deer Express 7

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

360 Fitness takes home the gold

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express A local personal training facility has garnered the top spot in this year’s Best of Red Deer in their respective category.

360 Fitness won gold for Best Fitness/ Gym in the City.

“It’s great to be recognized. It’s humbling but at the same time it’s re-energizing. It kind of makes everything worthwhile,” said Jack Wheeler, owner of the facility.

“We are super proud of our team.”

In August, 360 Fitness will celebrate its fourth anniversary.

In the beginning the fitness centre opened with just a staff of Wheeler and his wife and since then they have grown to a staff of 20.

They also now have 500 full-time personal training clients.

‘IT’S GREAT TO BE RECOGNIZED. IT’S HUMBLING BUT AT THE SAME TIME IT’S RE-ENERGIZING. IT KIND OF MAKES EVERYTHING WORTHWHILE.’ JACK WHEELER 360 Fitness recently expanded its facility by adding another 4,000 sq. ft. bringing the gym to a total of 8,000 sq. ft.

“We doubled the space and we doubled the value. We didn’t want to just double the space and have more fitness equipment, we wanted to double the value.

“We doubled the size of the washrooms and we completely renovated both the men’s and women’s washrooms. We added infrared saunas into each of them as well.

We wanted to give a spa-like feel in a gym, which is unique.”

Because of the addition in space to the gym, 360 Fitness is now able to offer group classes for both clients of the gym as well as the general public.

“We are now offering boot camps too.

This will help attract a larger portion of the market and that is really great,” said Wheeler.

“We wanted to keep the boot camps ‘360-esque’, so they are still small and exclusive and they are high quality.”

As for personal training, Wheeler said 360 Fitness has something to offer everyone.

“Each client has a customized package designed for them depending on their goals, depending on their schedule, budget and commitment level and depending on how fast they want to see their results,” said Wheeler.

“Before any client joins us at 360 they meet with one of our management staff and they do a free consultation. That is 20 minutes where they come in and spill the beans of who they are and what they want.

We can then steer them in the right direction.”

In addition, about 25% of the gym is also set aside for personal training clientele only as well.

“They have 14 pieces of cardio equipment they can use and 800 square feet of functional gym that is exclusive to them as well. So they don’t have to go to a big box gym and our gym.

“They can come and go as much as they want and use the gym as much as they want. They don’t have to pay for two memberships.”

CUTTING EDGE - Jack Wheeler, owner of 360 Fitness, shows off some of their state-of-the-art fitness equipment. The business landed gold in the Best Fitness/Gym category.

Wheeler said what sets 360 Fitness apart from other personal training facilities is that they are all-inclusive.

“When the client comes on board we handle everything from ‘step a to step z’, from their first day to their last day and all the way through to their goals,” said Wheeler.

“Most personal training studios are like a dentist office. You make an appointment, you have a session and that is it. For us, we take care of all the variables.

“We take care of all the personal training, coaching, assessments, we create customized nutrition plans and customized cardio plans and goal planners – everything that needs to happen to set someone up for success.”

All of the personal training sessions are 30 minutes long. Even those who have busy schedules can fit in 30 minutes of exercise, said Wheeler.

“Those 30 minutes are all with the trainer, so we set the client up for success before and after the session. You don’t need to pay a personal trainer to warm up and cool down. You need to pay the personal trainer to show you how to do it,” he said.

“The client might be there for an hour and they might get an hour of fitness, but they are only paying for 30 minutes because that is when they are with the trainer.

“You can be in and out of the gym in 45 minutes. And one of the perks at 360 Fitness is that you can work with any trainer you want, whenever you want to. If a client wants to work out at 6 a.m. one morning and then 9 p.m. the next day, they can, because they can pick and choose whomever they want.

“All of the trainers work together as a team and our clients get a lot more flexibility.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Oil/Lube Service 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

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8 Red Deer Express

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Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

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WHERE THE CUSTOMER IS PRIORITY #1 Thank you Red Deer Express readers for voting us the Best RV Dealership in Central Alberta for 17 years running!

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Red Deer Express 9

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

la petite Jaune Fleur continues to flourish

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express Featuring all kinds of flowers in vivid, striking and colourful arrangements, la petite Jaune Fleur has been flourishing in downtown Red Deer for 11 years.

The business, located at 4928 - Ross St. landed bronze in Best Floral Store in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

“I was in a totally different profession that had nothing to do with flowers,” says owner Laura Cadrin, explaining how her business came to be. She worked as a safety specialist for 25 years, but a love for flowers and a dream to open her own shop eventually surfaced. “Little by little, I realized it was time for me to move on and do something else,” she recalls.

“One day, I just decided I would own a flower shop.”

She continued to balance her safety career and la petite Jaune Fleur for seven years after launching the shop. “Then I finally decided it was time to make the move.”

Cadrin has thoroughly enjoyed the venture. The bright, welcoming shop features an array of flowers for customers to choose from, and Cadrin is happy to design all kinds of arrangements. Weddings are a particular specialty, she said. But there are plenty of other occasions where flowers are the perfect gift.

“What I love about this line of work is that everyday with flowers I get to affect somebody emotionally. Flowers are very heartfelt, and people give flowers for a

FLOWER MASTERS - Owner of la petite Jaune Fleur, Laura Cadrin and her assistant Sonja Hoefman prepare an array of beautiful bouquets. The store won bronze for Best Floral Store in this Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express year’s Best of Red Deer. reason. I’m able to supply that for them, and give them something that speaks from their heart to someone else’s heart. That’s what it’s all about for me.”

Another interesting item that the store features are what are known as ‘living frames’. They are like a frame made of small plants – ideal for a touch of greenery in a home.

“They are originally from Europe, and they’ve been there for a long time,” she says.

We’re so excited to be voted SILVER WINNER for Best Day Care!

u o Y k n Tha ! r e e D d Re

“They’re very popular here; they go very quickly.”

Several living frames can be arranged on a wall for a ‘tapestry’ of household greenery. They even come complete with an ‘indicator’ that shows when the plant needs watering.

Meanwhile, Cadrin is also pleased with her location – in the heart of downtown.

The City’s Ross Street Patio – located just outside her door - has also bolstered summertime business.

Cadrin explains how the patio not only slowed the traffic, but it made downtown more of a destination.

“People started to notice the shops,” she says. A busier environment has also encouraged those who work downtown to venture out and explore the downtown core more often as well. “Now, they are wandering down constantly. It’s growing and it will continue to be a good thing.”

Meanwhile, the business ultimately serves not just Red Deer but surrounding communities including Sylvan Lake, Innisfail, Bowden and Blackfalds. And all that attention to detail over the years has paid off handsomely – the company won Best Wedding Floral Designer for the City of Red Deer, Alberta and Canada while finishing 11th place worldwide.

They have also won in the category of Best Wedding Flowers for the City of Red Deer and Alberta, while placing fourth in Canada and sixth worldwide both out of 100 at the 2013 Wedding Industry Experts Awards.

“That’s really exciting.”

Cadrin also encourages folks to pop in with their questions about flower arranging – she also occasionally hosts workshops to share some of her extensive industry knowledge as well.

But mostly, it’s the power of what a gift of flowers can do that keeps her inspired.

“It’s always worth it when somebody comes back and tells you the flowers they gave to somebody made the impression they were looking for.” editor@reddeerexpress.com

Best of Red De er SILVER WINNER

Daycare

2013 R Choice eaders’ Awards

Tiny Toes Castle Daycare would like to thank our wonderfull Staff who have worked so hard. Also, all the parents and the entire community for their support in making this award possible!

THANK YOU! for making us your #1 Hit Music Channel! “ “Putting Quality Back Ba a Into Daycare” y

403-986-3817 #5 - 255 Davison Drive, Red Deer tinytoescastle@gmail.com

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10 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Red Deer·s Toy and Teacher Store Best of Red Deer Thank you to all of our SILVER WINNER Valued Customers who took the time to VOTE for us!

Toys 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

16 7667-50 Ave. (in Centre 76) www.kidsinharmony.ca

#

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Thank You Red Deer!

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Accountant 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Established in 1990

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NEAT NAILS - Mai Luu, nail technician at CN Nails & Spa works on a client’s nails. CN Nails & Spa won silver for Best Nail Salon.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

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Red Deer Express 11

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

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12 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Red Deer travel agency sees repeat award

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express Having agents that are knowledgeable, friendly and fun has put one local travel agency on the map for the Best of Red Deer awards.

Expedia CruiseShipCenters won silver for the second year in a row in the Travel Agency category.

Susan Walker, franchise owner and manager of the travel agency said it is “humbling” to receive such recognition, especially since they are one of the newest agencies in the City.

The local business opened in October 2007 and has continued to flourish ever since. With a staff of more than 20 travel agents, Expedia CruiseShipCenters is able to take travelers to any corner of the earth.

“We are a full service agency, specializing in cruises.”

She added right now some of the more popular destinations include Europe, Alaska and the Caribbean.

Walker said one aspect that sets Expedia CruiseShipCenters apart from other travel agencies in the City is that all of the agents are independent.

“They are all independent contractors. They are not paid employees. We also have home-based consultants as well,” said Walker.

“Other things that set us a part are that we offer individualized, personalized service available when it’s convenient to the client. We travel a lot so that we can give first-hand knowledge on destinations and cruise lines. We make it easy for people to do business with us and we work really hard at building personal relationships, so our clients become our friends.”

Meanwhile, Walker said it’s also important for Expedia CruiseShipCenters to be involved in the community.

“We’re heavily involved in charity barbeques and we donate to countless charities. Pretty well all of our team members also do volunteering in their own

CRUISE CENTRAL - From left, Kathy Smith, Susan Loblaw, Susan Walker, Carrie Bottomley and Carole Cooper of Expedia CruiseShipCenters stand in their Gaetz Avenue Crossing office. The company won silver for Best Travel Agency.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

communities.”

As to the Best of Red Deer award, Walker said she is proud of her team.

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Protecting Central Alberta Homes & Businesses for over 20 years!

Thank You Red Deer

Home Security Provider 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Be Safe… Call

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“It’s really kudos to the team because it’s their dedication to clients. I am happy for them because

this award is for them,” she said. “We’re very thankful that we have such amazing clients and that they take

the time to vote for us. You always wonder how you do so this is nice to see.”

We’re all

Smiles es!!

efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Dentist

Riverside Dental would like to 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards extend an enormous Thank You to all our valued clients for recognizing our efforts and making our 1st year in our new location so successful!

Red Deer, AB

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

New Business 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Dr. Tracy Dawes

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Our Hygenists

Dr. John Dumont

Our Assistants

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Our Business Staff

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info@riversidedentalcentre.ca

140, 5002 – 55 St. Red Deer, AB

www.riversidedentalcentre.ca

Follow us

Red Deer Express 13

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

T hank you Red Deer!

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Check out our Women’s Clothing 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Be

New Arrivals!

P re pa r e d

clothing

to get Not iced 4909 D 48th Street, Red Deer, AB.

403.341.0404

Congratulations Trina winner of a

$500

FLOWERING PERFECTION - Gloria Beck prunes one of the new Centennial Lilies in front of the Gazebo at Parkland Nurseries and Garden Centre. With flowers as beautiful as these it is no Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express wonder they won gold for Best Gardening Centre.

“Too Much of a Good Thing is Wonderful”

Parkland Mall Gift Card

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Shoe Store 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Thank you

It is our pleasure to serve you!

shoe lovers of Red Deer and Central Alberta for your vote of confidence and your patronage!

403-352-2200

#4 4804 - 50 Ave. Red Deer, AB

www.fineshoes.ca

THANK YOU RED DEER

for continuing to choose us as one of your favorite places to do business in Central Alberta

Trina’s name was selected from the thousands of entries that we received.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote.

A big Thank you to Parkland Mall, our $500 dollar gift card sponsor.

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Tire Store 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

DON’S TIRE

& AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR LTD. Specializing In: • Brakes • Alignments • Tune-Ups • Oil Changes • Passenger Cars & Light Trucks

Distributors For: • Firestone • Bridgestone • BF Goodrich

1975 Gaetz Ave. (Just South of Earl’s Restaurant) 403-347-5501

14 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

KG Country 95.5 wins several honours Local station sweeps categories with two golds and one silver award

BY KIRSTEN PALARDY Red Deer Express When Red Deerians were asked what radio station was the best this year, KG Country 95.5, formally CKGY, came to mind.

Not only did the station sweep the category for Best Radio Station taking gold in the Best of Red Deer, the team at CKGY also took gold for Best Radio DJ and Greg Shannon won silver for Best Radio DJ. Abbey White, program director at KG Country, said these wins would not be possible if it weren’t for the listeners.

“We have the best format and listeners in the world.

Our music is the kind that is extremely relatable to families of all kinds,” he said.

The music has been known to move people to laughter and tears, or remind them of a time when they were younger, and White said people have even called in because they had to pull over to the side

of the road while driving and listening to the music.

He pointed out that the team’s involvement in the community also plays a huge part in their successes over the years.

“Stuff a Bus is a huge campaign for us where we set up and raise a pile of money and food for the food bank and the Christmas Bureau.”

The team at KG Country also takes part in the Cures for Kids Radiothon.

White said every opportunity they get to be a part of the community is an important one.

White also said that the announcers at KG Country are always having a good time and that the listeners can sense that when they tune in.

“When we talk to our listeners and ask if there is anything we can change, they say no because they love everything,” he said.

“They know we’re invested in Red Deer and we are willing to step up at any moment and do what

COUNTRY STARS - Greg Shannon, Tara Lee and Al Redel share a laugh around their studio where they host their morning show.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express The local station won gold for Best Radio Station and both gold and silver for Best Radio DJ. we can to keep Red Deer an amazing place to be.”

This is CKGY’s 40th year

Thank You Red Deer and Central Alberta!

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

in existence and White said Red Deerians can look forward to some exciting things this summer as their anniversary approaches on Aug. 1.

“We’ve been so fortunate in the past to be bestowed awards but every time the first thing we have to say is that we couldn’t do this without our listeners. We always ask whether they’re going to care what we’re talking about and what we can do to make them smile or make their day.”

White said the entire team in the building is like

one big family, and that the announcers are just the part that Red Deer gets to enjoy.

“We all want to make great radio and be as real and relatable as we can.”

Greg Shannon added that he believes radio to be one of the most powerful and effective mediums.

“I love being able to entertain the audience with just your voice, and in my case a lot of sound effects.”

Shannon has been in radio for nearly 25 years and said the audience is key when they call in and as-

sist, enlighten, amuse or are there for the announcers.

As a station, Shannon said his favourite thing about KG Country is being part of the heritage of an entity which has so far served the community for 40 years.

“Our team features some very great family people that live to work hard and play harder. We have an enviable squad and look forward to making more great memories with Red Deerians and their families for a long time.”

Mortgage Broker 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Out! Check ‘em ending L Dominion ’re a ey Centres, Th beauty!

CANADA’S NATIONAL MORTGAGE COMPANY INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

Regional

Tel: 403-343-1125 | Fax: 403-343-1126 Email: info@regionalmortgage.ca

www.RegionalMortgage.ca

BUSTY BRILLIANCE - The Bra Lounge has won gold for Best Lingerie Store and silver for Best Customer Service due to their outstanding staff and their wide array of bras, lingerie, Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express and night wear.

Red Deer Express 15

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Our Sincerest

Thank You

To Our Valued Customers For Selecting Us The Best

Bridal Wear Store

For Service, Style & Selection Visit Us Today!

VICTORIA LANE BRIDES 4736 Ross Street

403.341.6556 www.reddeerbrides.com

Than Tha nk You Red Deer!

Best o fR SILVER ed Deer WINNE R

Vet Clinic

2013 R Choice eaders’ Award s

3450 50th Ave - Red Deer, AB

BOUDOIR BABE - Natalie Brooks, owner of Chair Tease struts her stuff while instructing a class.

Brooks received a gold award for Best Teacher and Chair Tease won gold for Best Dance Studio Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

403-342-6040

Veterinary Hospital

Over 100 Shops and Services including Wal-Mart and Safeway

Thank you to all our loyal shoppers for voting us one of the

Best Places to Shop!

Visit one of our award winning stores!

• La Senza • Payless Shoes • Walmart • Phone Experts • Hauck Vision & Hearing • Sport Chek • Chatters • Divine Nails

• Adam & Eve • Lammies • Rogers • Staples • People's • Bell • Ben Moss

67th Street and Gaetz Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta

petsvet@telus.net

www.lomsnesvet.ca

16 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Local Politician 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Mary Anne Jablonski

MLA Red Deer North • 403-342-2263

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

LOCAL POLITICIAN

LOCAL POLITICIAN

2012 Readers’ Choice Awards

2011 Readers’ Choice Awards

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

LOCAL POLITICIAN

LOCAL POLITICIAN

2010 Readers’ Choice Awards

2009 Readers’ Choice Awards

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

LOCAL POLITICIAN

LOCAL POLITICIAN

2008 Readers’ Choice Awards

2007 Readers’ Choice Awards

“Congratulations to all the winners for being one of Red Deer’s Best!

A special thanks to all my supporters for this great honour.”

LOOK...

BEST OF

SALES REPRESENTATIVE? If you would like information on how to effectively advertise your business or service, give one of our experienced Sales Representatives a call.

Kim Buffum

RED DEER

403.309.5469

who was voted one of the best by our amazing customers!

u o Y k n a h T ed Deer!

R

HAVE YOU MET YOUR

kbuffum@reddeerexpress.com Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Visit Visi Vi sitt us today si tod tod oday ay and and discover our award winning service, selection and value.

Optical Outlet 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Now available at:

Hauck Vision & Hearing

Stettler RedParkland Deer Mall 403-346-5568 1-800-813-0702 Main Street, Stettler 403-742-4504

Hearing Aids • Eyewear • Contact Lenses Deer f Red Best o INNER W D L GO

Michelle Vacca 403.309.5460 mvacca@reddeerexpress.com

Thank You Red Deer for voting Harbour Spas

GOLD G O WINNER for Best Hot Tub Retailer etailer Hot Tub R rs’

eade 2013 R Awards e Choic

Bernie Hynne 403.309.5466 bhynne@reddeerexpress.com

H

om

re

harbour spas e & L eis

u

harbour spas

6751 Gaetz Ave., Red Deer (Top of the North Hill) www.harbourspas.com

403-343-3620

HRS: M-F: 9-6 • Sat: 9-5 • Sun: 12-4

LET THEIR EXPERIENCE WORK FOR YOU.

Red Deer Express 17

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Golden Sun Health Foods offers variance and expertise

BY KIRSTEN PALARDY Red Deer Express For people looking for a little something from gum to a complete line of vitamins and minerals, Golden Sun Health Foods might be the place to go.

Taking silver in the Best of Red Deer’s Health Food Store category, owner Wayne Petch said it couldn’t be done without the loyal customers. “Customer service is number one. I run the store on the premise that the customer is gold, and they are the reason we are here after 16 years.”

Part of his customer service dedication is to provide patrons with the most information possible on a product and be able to point them in the direction of suitable items for their lifestyle.

“When a customer comes in with odd ball questions that are out of the blue, my staff does their best to question them and find out what the problem might be and suggest a solution,” said Petch.

He said his staff is highly

valuable and that he is always encouraging them to go ahead and further their education.

Petch also said his staff is already extremely knowledgeable but that he is always on the lookout for further educated employees with a drive to learn and share their knowledge.

“WE HAVE THINGS HERE TO HELP IMPROVE MEMORY FUNCTION, HELP YOUR KIDNEYS TO PERFORM, OR REMEDIES TO ANY NUMBER OF SKIN PROBLEMS.” WAYNE PETCH Golden Sun Health Foods carries an extensive line of vitamins, minerals, herbal supplements, homeopathic medicines as well as basic food products.

“We have so many products that are amazing sellers for us and out of the probably four or five thousand items, probably six or seven hundred are awesome sellers.”

As a part of his custom-

GOLDEN GOODIES – Co-owners of Golden Sun Health Food Store and winners of silver for Best Health Food Store, (from left) Tyler and Wayne Petch stand with their sales consultants Colleen Campbell and Jolanda Willie. er service dedication, the store offers a 15% off discount to patrons who sign up. Each time they return they receive their discount on all items in the store.

“Another thing that our customers really appreciate is that if they move away, we will ship products

to them.” Petch said some of his most loyal customers live as far away as the United States, others have simply moved around for work.

This is why being able to have products shipped to them is so important.

“We also have a large number of senior citizens

as customers and many of them don’t have the ability to come to the store when they are out of something.

In these cases we will deliver in town.”

No customer is ever just sold a product, said Petch.

They’re given the information to make a decision

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

on what they believe to be right for them.

“We want to make sure they find the right product for their situation. We want people to know we are here for them and that they’re welcome to come in and say hello, we’d love to get to know them.”

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

# 101 4808 50 Ave. , Red Deer, Alberta 403-343-8989 www.classictattoo.ca

Tattoo 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

18 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Thanks Red Deer!

Best o f Red D SILVE R WIN eer NER

We’re thrilled to be voted

Silver Winner

Travel Age

ncy 2013 Choic Readers’ e Awa rds

Best Travel Agency Once Again!

5250 - 22nd St. Red Deer (By Tony Roma’s)

SHIPS REGISTRY:BERMUDA

www.cruiseshipcenters.ca/reddeer

403-341-0177

Thanks Red Deer!

For voting us one of the best places to shoot pool and the GOLD WINNER for BEST LIVE MUSIC

THE VAT - we

love the vat

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Live Music

Places to Shoot Pool

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

5301 43rd St. Red Deer•403-346-5636

HOT TUB KING – Jim Roth, owner of Harbour Spas Home & Leisure, shows off one of his latest models in the showroom that has landed the company gold for Best Hot Tub Store.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

THANK YOU THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR LOYAL BOWER PLACE SHOPPERS WHO VOTED US THE

“#1 PLACE TO SHOP IN RED DEER” PROUDLY MANAGED BY

BowerPlace.com

ct a perfe

fit

PROUDLY MANAGED BY

Red Deer Express 19

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Chris Stephan honoured in Best of Red Deer

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express City Councillor Chris Stephan said he has learned a lot during his first term on council and now he has been recognized by Red Deerians as well.

Stephen won bronze in the Best City Councillor category in the 2013 Best of Red Deer.

Stephan, 31, who was elected to City council in 2010, grew up in Red Deer.

Growing up, Stephan said sports was his passion. He played volleyball, tennis, team handball and badminton, among others.

After high school, he left to complete two years of business at Calgary’s Mount Roy-

al College (now Mount Royal University), law school at the University of Saskatchewan and also completed a Masters of Business at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario.

“We’ve also been all over North America during that and in between all of that. Before we came back to Red Deer we were in Texas.”

Stephan and his wife Laura moved back to the City about four years ago. They have four young boys.

In addition to serving as a City councillor, Stephan also co-owns JD Law and owns and operates Shared Homes International Inc. Stephan said he has enjoyed his first

term on council, although it hasn’t been what he expected.

“I think it’s been an adventure. It hasn’t been what I expected, but I really didn’t know what to expect,” he said.

“There has been ups and downs and it certainly has been a learning process for me. I have learned a great deal from the other councillors as well as the public in terms of what things are important in the community.

“I’ve learned a lot from each of the councillors. I’ve gained a good perspective from each person and each of them brings a different background and a different view to everything and so I think our council has a large diversity in terms of backgrounds, views and political philosophies and there is something to be gained from each individual.”

Stephan said he has always been eager to get involved in the community and that is how his interest in politics was sparked.

“I have always liked to be involved.”

Since being elected to council in 2010, Stephan said he has enjoyed the many opportunities to interact with the public.

“I have enjoyed getting to speak to people in the community whether it has been at the farmer’s market or Let’s Talk. Getting to be on a variety of boards with people from the community has been very enjoyable as well. I have really learned what the community values.”

Stephan added some of the challenges as a councillor have included being able to respond to the public effectively.

“I’ve had to learn to do a better job at

listening, whether it is with the public or to other councillors. I’ve also had to learn be more tactful in terms of when to speak up and when not too. I’ve also had to learn about how to deal with things not going my way,” he said. “I realize that I have been a little bit more polarizing during this term. One of the things I’m trying to do better is keep quiet more and not ruffle too many feathers if it’s not necessary.

“Ultimately I look at my role as trying to represent the public the best that I can and sometimes that means that you have to take a strong stance against something that you don’t feel is in the public’s best interest and that is what I try and do.”

Stephan said in recent months, council has taken some heat from the public, but he has taken it as an opportunity to learn.

“It’s always important to listen to the public and it’s also important to listen to them and to respond to them as well as be responsible and respectful of the public purse and making sure we’re making decisions in the best interest of the public.

“In terms of some of the projects that have taken place, the public has let us know quite loud and clear that that is not where they want their money spent and where the priorities should be – like when it comes to things like bike lanes,” he said.

“It’s important as a council and as a City that we meet the basic needs of our public.

And that might not always be fancy things, it can just be basic services. We need to focus on those basics.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

Thank you Red Deer for selecting

Mitchell Jewell

as the Gold Winner for Best Jewelry Store

Sean Robinson pictured here with General Manager Sherry Heffernan Gener

Also, a huge Thank You to our dedicated staff who make your shopping experience a memorable one.

Visit us today and discover the difference!

Proudly Serving Central Alberta for 94 years

RECOGNITION - City Councillor Chris Stephan enjoys some time in City Hall Park. He received bronze in the Best City Councillor category this year.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Best of Red De er GOLD W INNER

Jewelr y Store

2013 R Choice eaders’ Awards

20 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Central Alberta Co-op Ltd. www.centralab.coop A Huge Thank You to All Our Customers for Selecting Us as A Multiple Award Winner Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Liquor

Gardening

Pharmacy

Car Wash

Gas Station

Friendliest Staff

Home Building Centre

Grocery

Lawn & Garden Equipment

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Over $3 Million Cash Paid Back to Central Alberta Co-op Members in 2013

Gas Bars • Red Deer - Deer Park & Taylor • Innisfail •Lacombe •Spruce View • Stettler

Home Centres • Red Deer - Home & Garden • Innisfail - Home & Agro •Spruce View - Home & Agro

Agro Centre

Pharmacy • Red Deer - Deer Park & Plaza

• Green Way

Food Stores • Red Deer - Deer Park & Plaza • Innisfail •Lacombe •Spruce View

y t i n u m m o ‘A Proud C orter’ Supp

Cardlocks/Bulk Petroleum • Innisfail •Lacombe •Stettler • Elnora • Spruce View

Over $200,000 was given back to our communities in 2012

Central Alberta Co-op Ltd. 5118-47 Avenue Red Deer AB 403.343.2667

Red Deer Express 21

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

River Bend lands double gold in Best of Red Deer

BY KIRSTEN PALARDY Red Deer Express Individuals looking for a great day of golf, just a walk on the trails or a picnic with the family have chosen River Bend Golf & Recreation Area (RBGRA) as their destination of choice in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

River Bend Golf & Recreation Area won gold for Best Driving Range as well as gold for Best Golf Course and General Manager Andrew Gilchrist said there are a number of reasons people may have voted this way.

“I think it’s a combination of both the golf and recreation area. It’s one of the best public golf courses in western Canada in terms of property and what the area has to offer,” said Gilchrist.

The RBGRA opened in 1987 and celebrated its 25th anniversary just last year.

On top of having a full 18-hole golf course, the area boasts a 9-hole course for children, seniors, and people just looking to up their skill levels through practice.

“We also have nine kilometers of hiking trails on 420 acres of forested land. Discovery Canyon water park is also a main attraction with a lazy river for families to tube down and spend the afternoon on the beach.”

On top of being a summer destination for people, Gilchrist pointed out that the RBGRA is a great place to visit in the winter with ample room for snow shoe ventures, cross-country skiing and any other winter activity.

Gilchrist describes the area as an all sports recreation area.

“We also host a number of golf tournaments throughout the season including a couple of charity events running right now as well as the Sutter Fund Golf Tournament in July.”

He said it is extremely important to remain an active part of the community.

“Quality time with family is more and more in demand and difficult to achieve with the lives that people lead. We have extremely good access from the Red Deer community as a part of the City limits. We are just a 10 minute drive to the northeast corner.”

Many people don’t view golf as a youth sport, but Gilchrist said it teaches young people many very important skills.

“It’s a life-long game that can be played by children through to seniors. It teaches about life etiquette where all players must conduct themselves in a manner that honors the rules of the game of golf.”

He added that youth are invited to join the leagues which enables them to make contacts in the community related to something they enjoy doing. The RBGRA offers private lessons through their professional staff and lessons for students called the Little Swingers in the spring.

The driving range is also unique as it offers different styles and options for hitting spaces. It has one of the largest grass tee box areas for a driving range in Alberta.

“The RBGRA is also a part of the City’s Waskasoo park system and is claimed to

GREEN ACRES - The ninth hole at River Bend Golf Course provides a difficult approach shot with four bunkers protecting the green. The facility won two gold awards in this year’s Best of Evan Buhler/Red Deer Express Red Deer. be the crown jewel of the City-owned park system.”

Gilchrist said it is important for people using the trails and grounds of the RBGRA to note that it is very much a public place.

“When people use this area they need to know they’re sharing it with wildlife.

There aren’t any major predators but there have been lynx and cougars seen

MILANO FOR MEN

Thank you Red Deer!

Thank You Red Deer

We’re Floored!

& Central Alberta for your continued support!

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

over the years along with coyotes, deer, fox and moose.”

He said it is a beautiful area of Red Deer in which to spend time.

“Alberta is part of that Nordic world where we spend six months under snow, so having a natural environment to go to and enjoy whether it’s hiking or cross-country skiing is invaluable.”

Carpet/Tile

2013 R Choice eaders’ Awards

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Mon.-Fri. 8am-7pm, Sat. 9am-5pm West Side of Gasoline Alley (next to Gary Moe VW)

Men’s Clothing

Formal Wear

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

403.343.6511

Thank You,

Red Deer and Central Alberta for selecting me for the Readers’ Choice Awards 2013 “I am humbled and thrilled”

Jack Donald #183, 2004-50 Avenue Southpoint Common (across from London Drugs) Red Deer

403-346-9333 or 403-357-4623 • www.milanoformen.com “We Don’t Take Fashion Casually” Follow Us

Best of Red De er SILVER WINNER

5102 - 58 Street, Red Deer Phone 403.358.3300 Real Estate - Investments

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Corporate Citizen 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

22 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

New N ew Car 2013 Readers’ Re Choice eA Awards

I would like to extend a huge thank you to our staff whose hard work and dedication to customer satisfaction have made these Reader’s Choice Awards possible.

Way to go team!

Peter Swainson

Peter Swainson PRESIDENT

Locally Owned & Operated Part of the Local Community Since 1971 PROUD COMMUNITY SUPPORTERS OF

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Red Deer Express 23

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

RETAILERS Appliance Store .........................................Trail Appliances Bath Fixtures Store ............................. Rona Home Centre Carpet/tile Store.............................. Carpet Colour Centre Furniture Store..................................... Sims Furniture Ltd. Home Building Centre...................... Home Depot Canada Lighting Store ................................... Home Depot Canada Paint Store .............................. Fargeys Decorating Centre Hardware Store ................................. Home Depot Canada Mattress Store ...................................... Mattress Mattress Hot Tub Store ...................Harbour Spas Home & Leisure Camera Store ............................................. McBain Camera Cell Phone Store .................................. The Phone Experts Computer Store .......................................Best Buy Canada Home Electronics Store .........................Best Buy Canada Office Supplies Store ..................Staples Business Depot Bridal Wear Store ............................. Victoria Lane Brides Children’s Wear Store ..........................Once Upon A Child Formal Wear Store..................... Moores Clothing for Men Women’s Clothing Store ..............................Muse Clothing Men’s Clothing Store .................................. Milano For Men Western Wear Store ........................... Wei’s Western Wear Lingerie Store ............................................The Bra Lounge Shoe Store ...................................................... Great Strides Department Store ......................................... Hudson’s Bay Floral Store .........................................Stems Floral Gallery Jewellery Store ........................................Mitchell & Jewell Optical Store ............................. Red Deer Eyecare Centre Pet Store ................................................................ Petsmart Toy Store ............................................. Toys “R” Us Canada Liquor Store ............................................Solo Liquor Store Grocery Store ............................................................ Sobeys Health Food Store.............Nutter’s Bulk & Natural Foods Gardening Centre .................................. Parkland Gardens Golf Store ...............................................................Golf Town Lawn & Garden Equipment Store ...............Canadian Tire Sporting Goods Store ....................................... Sport Chek Tire Store .................................................................. Kal Tire Used Car Dealer ....................................... Red Deer Motors New Car Dealer ....................... Southside Dodge Chrysler RV Dealer ................................................Woody’s RV World

Best Motorcycle/Powersports Dealer.................Gasoline Alley Harley-Davidson

Best Farm Implement Dealer .......Deermart Equipment Sales Best Place to Shop ....................Bower Place Shopping Centre

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

ENTERTAINMENT Radio Station................................................ CKGY 95.5 FM Night Club ................................................................. Bellini’s Place for Live Music .................................................The Vat Place for Karaoke ........................................ East 40th Pub Place for Dancing .................................................... Bellini’s Bingo Hall .........................................................Cannery Row Casino ...........................................................Jackpot Casino Bowling Alley ...............................................Heritage Lanes Place to Shoot Pool..............................The Corner Pocket Driving Range ............................... River Bend Golf Course Golf Course ................................... River Bend Golf Course

PEOPLE Best Business To Work For ........................ Servus Credit Union Friendliest Staff........................................... Servus Credit Union Best Radio DJ ....................... CKGY Team (Greg, Tera Lee & Al) Best Coach .................................................................Brent Sutter Best Teacher ..................... Natalie Brooks - Chair Tease Dance

Best Volunteer.................................................... Florence Massie Most Beloved Red Deerian ....................................Michael Dawe Best Corporate Citizen .............................. Jack & Joan Donald Best Local Politician ................................ Mary Anne Jablonski Best City Councillor....................................................... Tara Veer

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

SERVICES Accountant ........................ CGL Strategic Business & Tax Dentist .......................................... Riverside Dental Centre Chiropractor ............................... Family First Chiropractic Daycare ................................ Red Deer Child Care Society Pharmacy ............................. Shoppers Home Health Care Pet Groomer ............................. Doggy Doos & Kitties Too Day Spa/Esthetics..... Totally Refreshed Steam and Spa Nail Salon ................................................. Lovely Nail Salon Hair Salon .....................................................Chatters Salon Tanning Salon ................................... Bronze Zone Tanning Tattoo Studio ................................................. Classic Tattoo Fitness/Gym ......................................................360 Fitness Dance Studio ......................................... Chair Tease Dance Massage Therapist .... Totally Refreshed Steam and Spa Yoga Studio......................... Breathing Room Yoga Studio Weight Loss Clinic ........................................U Weight Loss Martial Arts Studio .......... Kensei Martial Arts & Fitness Hearing Solutions Service .........Beltone Hearing Centre Cellular Provider ............................................Telus Mobility

Best Computer Maintenance & Repair Shop ...................Best Buy Canada

Best Best Best Best Best

Photographer ................................Triple Ten Photography Picture Framing .....................................The Framing Nook Dry Cleaner Service ............................... Sterling Cleaners Tailor/Alterations Service ..................Gloria’s Alterations Carpet Cleaner ................ Mancuso Carpet & Upholstery

Best Furnace/Duct Cleaner Service ............Advanced Cleaning Solutions

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

Home Security Provider ..................... The Phone Experts Hotel ............................................................. Hotel Sheraton Financial Institution .......................... Servus Credit Union Mortgage Broker ........................... The Get ‘Er Done Girls Realtor .................... Susan Rochefort-Lime Green Realty Moving Company ........... Two Small Men with Big Hearts Storage Rental ...................................... U Store-It Canada

Best Equipment Rental ................... Parkland Party & Equipment Rentals

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

Travel Agency .................................................................AMA Auto Rental Service ...................... Enterprise Rent-A-Car Auto Body Shop ........................................................ Carstar RV Service/Repair Shop ............. Uncle Ben’s RV & Auto Muffler Shop ...................................... Carline Muffler Shop Transmission Shop ...... A-1 Transmission & Auto Service Oil/Lube Service ..................................................... Mr. Lube Gas Station ................................................................Fas Gas Car Wash ................................................... Jumbo Car Wash Indoor Rec Facility .................................... Collicutt Centre Outdoor Rec Facility ......................................... Rec Centre Charitable Organization ................................... United Way New Business ....................................................Dose Coffee All Around Business .......................... Servus Credit Union Customer Service .............................. Servus Credit Union Plumbing Shop ......................Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating Barber Shop ............ Tommy Gun’s Original Barber Shop Vet Clinic ............................. Piper Creek Veterinary Clinic Pet Boarding/Daycare Service ...... 4 Paws Dog Daycare

24 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

RETAILERS Appliance Store ..........................................Sears Canada Bath Fixtures Store ....................... Home Depot Canada Carpet/tile Store.............................. Carpet Superstores Furniture Store................................................... The Brick Home Building Centre...................... Rona Home Centre Lighting Store ....................... Red Deer Lighting Centre Paint Store ...................................... Home Depot Canada Hardware Store ................................. Rona Home Centre Mattress Store ............................ Sleep Country Canada Hot Tub Store ............................... Sun N Fun Pool & Spa Camera Store ....................................... Best Buy Canada Cell Phone Store ............... Communications Group Ltd. Computer Store ............................................ Future Shop Home Electronics Store .............................. Future Shop Office Supplies Store .........................Prairie Office Plus Bridal Wear Store ............................Your Wedding Place Children’s Wear Store ....................The Children’s Place Formal Wear Store................................... Milano For Men Women’s Clothing Store ..................................Sidestreet Men’s Clothing Store .............. Moores Clothing for Men Western Wear Store ................ Lammle’s Western Wear Lingerie Store .....................................................La Senza Shoe Store ....................................... Payless Shoesource Department Store ............................................... Walmart Floral Store ......................................... Floral Expressions Jewellery Store ...................................Peoples Jewellers Optical Store .............................Hauck Vision & Hearing Pet Store .......................................................... Fetch Haus Toy Store ................................................ Kids In Harmony Liquor Store .................................... Co-op Liquor Stores Grocery Store ........................................... Save-On-Foods Health Food Store...........................................Golden Sun Gardening Centre ................................... Red Deer Co-op Golf Store ...................... Red Deer Discount Golf Centre Lawn & Garden Equipment Store Home Depot Canada Sporting Goods Store ............................. Flaman Fitness Tire Store ........................................................... Don’s Tire Used Car Dealer ................... Southside Dodge Chrysler New Car Dealer ..................................... Red Deer Toyota RV Dealer .................................... Uncle Ben’s RV & Auto Motorcycle/Powersports Dealer ..........Turple Bros Ltd. Farm Implement Dealer ............................................. UFA Place to Shop .............................................. Parkland Mall

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

ENTERTAINMENT Radio Station..........................................KRAZE 101.3 FM Night Club ..........................................................Billy Bob’s Place for Live Music ..................................... The Hideout Place for Karaoke .....................................Lion’s Den Pub Place for Dancing .............................................Billy Bob’s Bingo Hall .................................... Red Deer Bingo Assoc.

Casino ............................................................. Cash Casino Bowling Alley .............................................Riverside Bowl Place to Shoot Pool.............................................. The Vat Driving Range .................... Alberta Springs Golf Resort Golf Course .................................... Balmoral Golf Course

PEOPLE Best Business To Work For ........................ Acura of Red Deer Friendliest Staff................................................ Red Deer Co-op Best Radio DJ ........................................ Greg Shannon - CKGY Best Coach .............................................................Kevin Nephin Best Teacher ......................... Miss Larre -Holy Family School

Best Volunteer......................................................... Millie Heinz Most Beloved Red Deerian ........................Morris Flewwelling Best Corporate Citizen ........................................... Paul Harris Best Local Politician ..................................................Cal Dallas Best City Councillor................................................. Paul Harris

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

SERVICES Accountant ......................................... MNP -Melisa Milne Dentist .............................................Bower Dental Centre Chiropractor ............................................... Dr. Lyle Smith Daycare ................................................... Tiny Toes Castle Pharmacy ................................................. Red Deer Co-op Pet Groomer .................................................... Fetch Haus Day Spa/Esthetics......................... Safari Spa and Salon Nail Salon .................................................. CN Nails & Spa Hair Salon ..........................................Crop Hair Boutique Tanning Salon ........................................................ Fabutan Tattoo Studio .......................................... Dark Day Studio Fitness/Gym .................................Only Women’s Fitness Dance Studio ....................................Dance Magic Studio

Best Massage Therapist ..............Baker Family Chiropractic & Wellness

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

Yoga Studio....................................................Bikram Yoga Weight Loss Clinic ................................ Weight Watchers Martial Arts Studio .. Cheney’s Zen Karate Kickboxing Hearing Solutions Service ..............A & E Hearing Care Cellular Provider ........................................... Bell Mobility Computer Maintenance & Repair Shop .......Compusoft Photographer ................................Traptow Photography Picture Framing .........................Michael’s Arts & Crafts Dry Cleaner Service ............. Classic Cleaners & Tailors Tailor/Alterations Service ... Classic Cleaners & Tailors Carpet Cleaner ............................. Steam Clean Express

Best Furnace/Duct Cleaner Service .........Twin Peaks Furnace Cleaning

Best Home Security Provider ........Protec Security Systems Best Hotel ........................................................Black Knight Inn Best Financial Institution ............................. TD Canada Trust Best Mortgage Broker .... Dominion Lending Centres Regional Mortgage Group

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

Realtor ..................................Tara Devereaux-Century 21 Moving Company .................. Halbro Moving & Delivery Storage Rental .............................Sentinel Self-Storage Equipment Rental ......................... Home Depot Canada Travel Agency .... Expedia Cruiseshipcenters Red Deer Auto Rental Service ....... Budget Car and Truck Rental Auto Body Shop ............................ First Choice Collision RV Service/Repair Shop ...........Woody’s RV World Ltd. Muffler Shop ...................... Midas Auto Service Experts Transmission Shop .......................... Excell Transmission Oil/Lube Service .............................................. Minit Lube Gas Station .............................................. Red Deer Co-op Car Wash .................................................. Red Deer Co-op Indoor Rec Facility .......... GH Dawe Community Centre Outdoor Rec Facility ...................................Bower Ponds Charitable Organization .......................................... SPCA New Business ...................... Sound Connections Centre All Around Business ................... Peavey Industries Ltd. Customer Service ...................................The Bra Lounge Plumbing Shop .... McMullen’s Refrigeration & Heating Barber Shop ........................ Adam & Eve Unisex Centre Vet Clinic .......................... Lomsnes Veterinary Hospital

Best Pet Boarding/Daycare Service ......... Karing Holmes Dog Daycare

Red Deer Express 25

Wednesday, June 26, 2012, Best of Red Deer 2013

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

RETAILERS Appliance Store ............ Leon’s Furniture & Appliances Bath Fixtures Store ...........Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating Carpet/tile Store Central Alberta Flooring & Interiors Furniture Store.............. Ashley’s Furniture HomeStore Home Building Centre............................ Red Deer Co-op Lighting Store ................................... Rona Home Centre Paint Store ..............................................Cloverdale Paint Hardware Store ......... Home Hardware Building Centre Mattress Store ................... Mike’s Mattress Superstore Hot Tub Store ..............................................Dynasty Spas Camera Store ............................................. London Drugs Cell Phone Store ............................................Rogers Plus Computer Store ......................................... London Drugs Home Electronics Store ........................... London Drugs Office Supplies Store .............. Brandex Office Supplies Bridal Wear Store ......................Bridal Couture Dezigns Children’s Wear Store .................Old Navy Southpointe Formal Wear Store....................... Black Knight Tuxedos Women’s Clothing Store .......................... The Pink Paire Men’s Clothing Store ............... Mark’s Work Wearhouse

Best Western Wear Store ........... Jones Boys Saddlery & Western Wear

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

Lingerie Store ............................................. Hudson’s Bay Shoe Store ................................................... Hudson’s Bay Department Store .................................................... Sears Floral Store ................................... La Petite Jaune Fleur Jewellery Store ................................Ben Moss Jewellers Optical Store ............................................ The Eye Studio Pet Store ................................................................ Petland Toy Store ............................................................... Walmart Liquor Store ......................................... The Liquor Hutch Grocery Store .......................................... Red Deer Co-op Health Food Store................................... Living Nutrition Gardening Centre ............................................. Dentooms Golf Store ................................... River Bend Golf Course Lawn & Garden Equipment Store ........ Red Deer Co-op Sporting Goods Store .................... Play It Again Sports Tire Store ......................................................Fountain Tire Used Car Dealer .................................... J & JB Auto Ltd. New Car Dealer ....................................... Kipp Scott GMC RV Dealer ........................................Southside RV Centre

Best Motorcycle/Powersports Dealer ............... Red Deer Power Sports

Best Farm Implement Dealer ............Pentagon Farm Center Best Place to Shop ..................................Winners Homesense

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

ENTERTAINMENT Radio Station.................................... Big 105.5 CHUB FM Night Club ................................................Lotus Nightclub Place for Live Music ......................................Velvet Olive Place for Karaoke ...................................................Cheers Place for Dancing ...................................Lotus Nightclub Bingo Hall .............................................................................

Casino ...................................................................................

Bowling Alley .......................................................................

Place to Shoot Pool............................. Bo’s Bar and Grill Driving Range ......................................................................

Golf Course ........................ Alberta Springs Golf Resort

PEOPLE Best Business To Work For ................. Peavey Industries Ltd. Friendliest Staff................................ Family First Chiropractic Best Radio DJ .................................. Ransom - Kraze 101.3 FM Best Coach ............................................................... Doug Quinn Best Teacher ................................................................Mrs. Lund

Best Volunteer........................................................ Lyn Radford Most Beloved Red Deerian ........................................ Tara Veer Best Corporate Citizen ......................................... Phil Neufeld Best Local Politician ..................................Morris Flewwelling Best City Councillor............................................ Chris Stephan

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

SERVICES Accountant .............................................. Perry Cruickshank Dentist ...............................................Heritage Family Dental Chiropractor ...........Baker Family Chiropractic & Wellness Daycare ..................................Kimmotion Family Day Home Pharmacy ........................................................Save-On-Foods Pet Groomer ................................................................ Petland Day Spa/Esthetics......................................... Posh Esthetics Nail Salon .................................................. Divine Nails & Spa Hair Salon ..............................................The Katz Meow Hair Tanning Salon ................................................... Plaza Tanning Tattoo Studio ..........Renaissance Tattoos & Body Piercing Fitness/Gym ................................................. Collicutt Centre Dance Studio ........................................... JD’s Fabulous Feet Massage Therapist ................................ Associate Massage Yoga Studio..........................................The Amaryllis Centre Weight Loss Clinic .............................................. Jenny Craig Martial Arts Studio ...Master Rim’s TaeKwonDo Academy Hearing Solutions Service ....Strategic Hearing Solutions Cellular Provider ..........................................Roger’s Mobility Computer Maintenance & Repair Shop .......London Drugs Photographer ................................................Highview Photo Picture Framing ..............................................Frame-It Store Dry Cleaner Service ....................................... Ultra Cleaners Tailor/Alterations Service .............................. We Sew Right Carpet Cleaner ........Sears Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Best Furnace/Duct Cleaner Service ........... Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

Home Security Provider .................................. ADT Security Hotel .............................................................. Red Deer Lodge Financial Institution ......................................................... RBC Mortgage Broker ............................... The Mortgage Centre Realtor .............................Mike Wiseman-True North Realty Moving Company ............................ Home To Home Moving Storage Rental .................................................... AB Storage Equipment Rental .....................Action Equipment Rentals Travel Agency .....................................................Marlin Travel Auto Rental Service ..................................Hertz Rent A Car Auto Body Shop ..............................Boyd Autobody & Glass RV Service/Repair Shop ................... Southside RV Centre Muffler Shop ................................... Budget Brake & Muffler Transmission Shop .......................... Parkland Transmission Oil/Lube Service .....................................................Jiffy Lube Gas Station ....................................................................Costco Car Wash .....................................................................Mr. Suds Indoor Rec Facility ...............................................Rec Centre Outdoor Rec Facility .................................. Great Chief Park Charitable Organization ................. The Lending Cupboard New Business ................................................... Ruscan Meals All Around Business ................................... Big Bend Market Customer Service ........................................................ Sobeys Plumbing Shop ................................ CJ Plumbing & Heating Barber Shop ................................................. Alberta Barbers Vet Clinic ...........................................Deer Park Pet Hospital Pet Boarding/Daycare Service ..................Klassic Kennels

26 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

A Big Thank You!

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Thank You Red Deer For Voting Us Gold!

Equipment Rental 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

“Your Local, Independent and

Thank you Red Deer for Voting Us Owned Gold Winner Again!

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s Gold Winner Again! ed Deer for Voting U R u o y k n a h T Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Lingerie Store 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Cortney, Sheena and the rest of the Bra Lounge team want to extend an ENORMOUS THANK YOU to Central Alberta from East to West. Thank you for recognizing our efforts to provide every woman with the luxury of a awless ďŹ t and trendy fashions with the ULTIMATE BRA SHOPPING EXPERIENCE!

Customer Service 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

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GIFTED WITH GOLF – Dave and Amanda Hoppe, owners of Red Deer Discount Golf Centre, won silver in the Best Golf Store category in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Servus Credit Union Voted #1 The residents of Red Deer have voted and Servus Credit Union is the Top All Round Business for 2013.

In addition, for the 17th year in a row Servus Credit Union was voted as the top financial institution in Red Deer.

Servus is also the 2013 winner for: ‡ %XVLQHVV WR ZRUN IRU

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The Best of Red Deer gives us a glimpse of great things in our city and Servus is honored to have been voted tops in these categories.

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Red Deer Express 27

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Dedicated City woman lands Best Volunteer

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express Red Deerian Florence Massie has supported so many local organizations via her volunteerism, she has landed gold in this year’s Best of Red Deer in the Best Volunteer category.

For starters, Massie, who has lived in Red Deer for 43 years, has been involved with Central Alberta Theatre for 37 years – she has received lifetime membership with the organization for her various volunteer roles over the years.

“My husband and I used to do front of house, and I’ve helped out with make-up,” she explains. Although she hasn’t acted, she loves many aspects of the theatrical world and the nuts and bolts of production.

“I really like the theatre.”

She was also on the board for the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery for a number of years. That work came out of a longtime love of museums, which is something she recalls sharing with her children during their growing up years.

Massie also enjoys helping out at St. Leonard’s Anglican Church when she can.

These days, she’s president of the Anglican Church Ladies group. Plus she’s a member of the Royal Purple, too.

Another favourite activity? Photography. It has also grown to be a meaningful way to express herself. It’s also a skill she shares each year during Westerner Days in July. “I’ve done that for about 16 years.”

She snaps pictures of activity unfolding over the grounds, and particularly covers

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

the livestock portion of the fair and the evening chuck wagon races. Her interest in photography meant involvement with the local camera club as well.

Years back, she also served on the Red Deer Hospital Auxiliary, and she is also an enthusiastic board chair at the Kerry Wood Nature Centre. “They have an excellent playschool here, which both of my grandchildren came through, too.”

An avid interest in politics has led her to be involved with both the provincial and federal Progressive Conservatives as well. That interest in politics was largely sparked when she met John Diefenbaker, the 13th prime minister of Canada.

“My dad and him were friends – they met in 1921,” she explains. “He used to visit us at the farm, and that’s how I became involved in politics. He was a very interesting man.”

To top it off, she’s also sold Avon for 48 years. Not a volunteering venture, but certainly another activity to include in a busy schedule. But it’s clear Massie wouldn’t have it any other way.

Overall, she says that volunteering for a number of organizations has provided her with lots of learning opportunities. And perhaps the best part is how volunteering has brought so many new friends into her life as well, she says. When she was a newcomer to Red Deer 43 years ago because of a family transfer from Calgary, it wasn’t long before she started exploring ways to get involved in the community. And having five kids didn’t slow her down one bit.

Sometimes that meant involving them – for example, her interest in museums

I would like to thank all my Clients for their wonderful support over the years. A HUGE Thank You to my Wonderful Staff who’s care and dedication towards our Clients and Companions helps make this award possible

FAVOURITE PHILANTHROPIST – Florence Massie stands by the beautiful greenery at Kerry Wood Nature Centre where she volunteers. She won gold for Best Volunteer for her service to several Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express community organizations. meant introducing the kids to museums whenever they had the chance.

“They were being educated whether they liked it or not,” she adds with a laugh.

Naturally, Massie is the first to extol the virtues of volunteering. For one thing, the personal returns are plentiful. It’s often said volunteers receive more back in their

lives than what they give, and that’s a notion Massie agrees with.

And you don’t have to give loads of time to an organization – even contributing a bit of time can make a big difference.

“People are missing a lot by not volunteering.” editor@reddeerexpress.com

Thank you Red Deer & Central Alberta for recognizing and valuing our business as much as we do yours!

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

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28 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

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Red Deer Express 29

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Lending Cupboard takes bronze for Best Charitable Organization

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express Providing an exceptional and muchneeded service to Central Albertans, The Lending Cupboard has been awarded bronze in the Best Charitable Organization category in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

Founded by Jaqui Joys in 2006, The Lending Cupboard provides new or used medical equipment to Central Albertans for as long as they need it, at no cost and with no qualifying.

An enormous inventory includes everything from canes, crutches, walkers, lifts and wheelchairs to beds, bath stools and chairs, slings and braces, back rests and bathroom bars and much more. There is also a section with equipment designed for children. Volunteers and staff also offer a pick-up and delivery service within Red Deer and the surrounding area.

“We have about 7,500 items, and about 80 per cent of that is out in the community,” said May Johnson, executive director. “We process about 650 pieces a month.

“On an average day, about 50 pieces are loaned out and about 43 pieces are returned.” From its inception, the organization has been meeting a growing need in Central Alberta. It’s a fantastic option for folks, as plenty of medical equipment doesn’t come cheap otherwise.

Johnson came onboard in July of last year and from the start her vision has included vigorously spreading the word about what The Lending Cupboard has to offer. She regularly makes presentations to local organizations and service groups.

“From 2006 until now, it’s really, really grown,” explains Johnson, who has extensive community, volunteer and business experience as well. She has won a Soroptomist Silent Angel award and a Women of Excellence award for her community service plus she is also a past president of both the Lacombe and Red Deer Chamber of Commerce.

For Johnson, it’s all about helping to bolster awareness about the organization.

That means thinking outside the box when it comes to generating revenue and educating the public about what they do, she adds.

It’s also critical to network in the community as it’s not inexpensive to operate the facility – Johnson said it costs about $16,000 a month to run The Lending Cupboard.

Also many people aren’t aware of The Lending Cupboard’s scope of services.

“A lot of people think it’s another food bank.” Another misconception is that the equipment is primarily for the elderly. But there is a kids’ corner as well.

Meanwhile, she also credits a hardworking team of committed helpers who assist clients and work to maintain and clean the equipment making it as good as new for repeated use.

Volunteers are also all trained on fitting clients for various pieces of equipment as well. Johnson said her volunteers log about 8,400 hours per year.

But there is still room for help. “We always need volunteers and we need board members.”

For those interested in volunteering, ap-

HELPING OTHERS - May Johnson, of the Lending Cupboard, stands in the supply room at the facility where medical equipment is loaned to people in need. The organization won bronze for Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express Best Charitable Organization. plications can be obtained by checking out www.lendingcupboard.ca to download the application.

Ultimately, Johnson is in the ideal line of work. Her friendly manner and a natural gift of compassion, along with her sharp organizational and marketing skills, makes her a true visionary for The Lending Cupboard.

“It’s always nice to help people.”

The Lending Cupboard is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. But there is always time for clients – no matter what the time of day.

“If it’s 3 o’clock and someone comes to the door, they are never turned away. They are always taken care of.” editor@reddeerexpress.com

Thank You

Red Deer and surrounding area for making us a Gold Winner again!

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

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30 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Thanks for your support Red Deer

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

We Think You’re Great Too!

Pre Owned 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

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Red Deer Express 31

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Mitchell & Jewell lands gold in Best of Red Deer

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express Having been a prominent part of Red Deer since 1919, Mitchell & Jewell has taken the gold in the Best Jewellery Store category in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

“It’s awesome – it’s always our goal to make sure everyone has a pleasant experience at Mitchell & Jewell,” explains partner and Managing Director Sean Robinson. “When they reward us by saying they enjoy their visits here, that is ideal.”

Located at 4910 -- 45th St., the store carries an extensive range of jewellery and giftware all beautifully displayed in a setting that melds a warm, traditional sensibility with a sophisticated décor. Mitchell & Jewell is also the longest-running independently-owned business in the City.

Contributing to the store’s success is the overriding emphasis on customer service, said Robinson.

“At the end of the day, we want nothing else than to have our customers satisfied when they leave the store. Sometimes that means buying a product out of the showcase, sometimes it’s spending three to four weeks designing and building something.

We do an exceptional amount of custom work. You have to find that balance – to stay on the ‘trending’ side of things and stay aware of what the market is asking for. And there is always the demand for a classic look.”

The store was first launched as A.B. Mitchell Jewellers. Last year, Sean and Granada Robinson partnered with own-

THE FINEST - Mitchell & Jewell General Manager Sherry Heffernan and Managing Director Sean Robinson show off some jewelry in their store that has been around since 1919. The store took Evan Buhler/Red Deer Express home gold in the Best Jewellery Store category. ers Dick and Marilyn Jewell because Dick, whose father Bob joined forces with Alexander Mitchell back in 1950, was looking ahead to succession planning with the business. The Robinsons, who were partners with Granada’s parents in the Whitecourt-based Merchant Jewellers for many years, have brought extensive industry experience with them.

Meanwhile, there is indeed plenty to celebrate these days along with the Best of Red Deer win. Sean just returned from the JCK Show in Las Vegas, which is described as the industry’s premiere tradeshow fea-

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turing about 3,000 suppliers and some 30,000 products. As the web site points out, the “latest awe-inspiring domestic and international designers and most sought after trends” are showcased.

“It’s North America’s leading jewelery show,” added Sean. “Not only are you looking at designers and products, but the education and trending seminars provide knowledge for our jewellery industry. It’s gets you outside your everyday routine and thinking about how you can do better.”

Another huge milestone for Mitchell & Jewell was recently being named a pre-

ferred dealer by the Toronto-based Maple Leaf Diamonds.

The company’s diamonds are mined at the Ekati Mine, Canada’s first diamond mine, located in the Northwest Territories.

They have been ranked among the world’s most ‘exquisite and brilliant gems.’

Sean met with Maple Leaf Diamonds representatives while in Las Vegas to iron out the details. “We’ve always sold Canadian diamonds right back to 1998 when the first mine opened. But we have an opportunity now to be a preferred dealer for Maple Leaf Diamonds.”

The preferred status means they will be the only dealer in Red Deer to carry Maple Leaf Diamonds product. This will open up exciting new lines that will be featured locally, from bridal to diamond pendants and earrings, engagement rings and anniversary bands. “I think we will have something here that will be very special to offer,” he added. “Our selection will be top notch. It’s going to be extensive.”

Of course, Mitchell & Jewell’s product line in general have kept generations of customers returning. Every staff member is also a graduate jeweler from the Canadian Jewellers Association.

For Sean, there couldn’t be a more fitting line of work. “We’re very fortunate to be in the ‘special occasion’ business. People come in here for very joyous reasons. The fact that we get to take part in an engagement, an anniversary, a birthday or a birth – every day is different and it allows us to be part of happy occasions.” editor@reddeerexpress.com

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32 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

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Red Deer Express 33

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Local photographer is tops in her field

BY KIRSTEN PALARDY Red Deer Express Babies are Alicia Congdon’s specialty at Triple Ten Photography, and Red Deerians made note of that this year in the Best of Red Deer awarding her a gold win for Best Photographer.

Congdon’s life has been lived behind a lens, and she said she remembers her childhood spent with a camera of some type in her hands.

“I had one of those little cameras that came in the Happy Meals and was always taking loads of pictures. After my husband I got married we decided to buy me a better camera, and from there I learned to use it,” said Congdon.

She decided to educate herself through all kinds of courses locally in photography, as well as taking the photography course through the New York Institute of Photography.

That is how she broke into the world of professional photography and when people continued to ask her to do their photos, she thought she would turn it into a business.

When she heard about her win in this year’s Best of Red Deer, she said she was thrilled and grinning from ear to ear.

“I’ve only been in business as Triple Ten Photography for about a year and a half, so to be able to accomplish something like this in that time is amazing to me.”

She said she loves being able to interact with her clients and getting to meet all kinds of people.

Congdon primarily photographs newborns but also does family portraiture, graduations and much more.

Her joy is found in newborn photography and she said it is extremely rewarding to be able to be involved in a family’s first few days with a new baby.

“To know they trust me in those first few precious days is very special. I like hearing - whether it be their first or fourth child - what it’s been like.”

She also is able to provide clients with the option for professionally printed canvases and other specialty items.

“A lot of people just look for those digital files, but

once I’m able to educate them on the quality lab products I use, versus local consumer labs, they see the difference and want to purchase those professional products.”

Congdon said the different in professional quality items versus local consumer items is in the color and the materials used. She said “It might be a little bit more money but it looks better on the walls.”

The name of her business also has a personal connection for Congdon. After her wedding on Oct. 10, 2010 (1010-10) her husband’s and her decision to move towards her career in photography was partially funded by money given as wedding gifts.

“With that connection after we got married we just wanted to tie the business name in; that’s where Triple Ten came from.”

Congdon is also involved in the community through providing photography for local pet rescue organizations including Underdogs Rescue.

“Community is such a huge thing for me and my goal is to remain involved and become further involved during my career.”

Celebrating 4 Years in Central Alberta Thanks Central Alberta for Voting For Us!

u o Y k n a Th eer

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Red DWe Think

You’re The Best Too!

Carpet/Tile 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Best Chiropractor 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

PERFECTIONIST - Alicia Congdon, owner of Triple Ten Photography was voted gold for Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express Best Photographer for her work with families and newborns.

Friendliest Staff Front Row: Danika Roberts, Taylor Walker Back Row: Victoria Dueck, Crystal Jabs

From inspiration to installation

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

- We’ve got you covered

Special Acknowledgement to our

SUPERB, FRIENDLY STAFF! • Chiropractic • Orthotics • Massage & Craniosacral • Natural Health Products Therapy • Weight Loss Program

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34 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

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Red Deer Express 35

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Thank You Red Deer for your continued support and voting us!

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GOLDEN FURNITURE - Mike Sinclair, manager of Sims Furniture sits on one of their leather sofas that was partially responsible along with their customer service to land the business gold Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express for Best Furniture Store.

“We would like to Thank all of our Amazing and Loyal Customers that have recognized our Store as a Favorite in Red Deer!” Jodie

THANK YOU

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36 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Southside Dodge wins in range of categories

BY KIRSTEN PALARDY Red Deer Express Winning four awards in the Best of Red Deer is nothing short of an accomplishment, and Rod Oszust, general sales manager at Southside Dodge Chrysler said he is very proud of his team.

“I really want all of my departments to win, so to win four like this is pretty cool,” said Oszust.

Southside won gold for Best New Car Dealer, silver for Best Used Car Dealer, bronze for Best RV Dealer and bronze in the Best RV Service/Repair Shop category.

Oszust said there are a number of things that set their dealership apart from the competition, including their way of allowing customers to shop without pressure.

He said by having all the prices and monthly payments displayed in the windows of the vehicles, customers are invited to shop around without dealing with a sales person until they’ve had a chance to talk to their families and make a decision of some sort.

“Everyone has a budget, you and I both have one, so rather than having no signs and people wondering if they can afford it, we put all the information they need in the window.”

Oszust said this helps customers feel at ease and also gets 50% of the process done before a customer even sees a sales person.

“They have already picked units knowing what they can afford, then they call us wanting to drive two or three units.”

On the used car side of things, Oszust said what he finds most different about the dealership and what sets them apart is the two staff members dedicated

to helping customers get into a vehicle.

“We have two ladies here that are dedicated to helping people re-establish their credit. Bad things happen to good people, and when you go shopping for a vehicle they find out they have credit issues but aren’t told what those issues are or how to fix them.”

That is where he said the dealership differs, rather than just turning someone down they give them steps they can take to fix their credit and come back in six months to a year and be able to purchase a vehicle.

When it comes to recreational vehicles, Oszust said the dealership has great selection, great variety and good prices.

“One thing we do is trade in credit too. Who wants the hassle of selling their own trailer, so unlike other dealerships, we do take trade ins on all RV’s.”

Something Oszust said he is proud of as well are the truck and trailer combinations that the dealership offers.

He said they can tailor-make hundreds of combinations for customers to keep things in their price range.

Oszust said the dealership also tries to remain heavily involved in the community through donations and other programs. “There’s not much of anything we’re not involved in. We do a program where we give kids school supplies, we do Santa’s Anonymous and at Christmas we pick three or four families and give them stuff.”

He said giving back to the community is very important to the dealership because their business is all about the consumer and the community.

“If you’re all about yourself, that’s all you’ll ever get back. We give back to the community because they are what make us thrive.”

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

LOCAL BUTCHER & GROCETERIA

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Thank you Red Deer for your Ongoing Support!

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

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PRIDE - Peter Swainson, president of South Side Dodge Chrysler, stands next to his selection of new vehicles. The dealership won an array of Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express awards in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

Red Deer Express 37

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Thank You Red Deer

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

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38 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

New small business enjoys downtown atmosphere

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express A new business that has seen much success has now earned themselves an award in the Best of Red Deer.

DOSE Coffee Co. won gold for Best New Business.

Rolland Forsland, co-owner with Alison McCracken are the driving force behind DOSE Coffee, which is located at 4912 - 50 Ave. “It’s kind of surprising to tell you the truth, but it’s very nice,” said Forsland. “This is beyond just winning an award. It’s a pretty amazing title.”

DOSE Coffee Co. recently moved to its current location in January and Forsland said the move has proven to be successful so far.

“It’s been amazing. This street right now is really busy. We are starting to see more businesses coming down here – there is a restaurant that is opening right across the street from us which is going to be really great to have.

And everyone on this street is very friendly and supportive of each other,” said Forsland. “This area is very walkable and I think that is what benefits us – the huge sidewalks and the traffic is a little

bit slower so you feel safer walking around. It’s also very centrally located and close to a lot of the banks and other bigger businesses in the downtown.”

Top-notch service is also something that DOSE Coffee Co. prides itself on and Forsland said he has his staff to thank for that.

“All of our staff is trained which I think is one of the reasons people get really good service here,” he said. “There are six courses that the staff goes through.”

Not only does DOSE Coffee serve a variety of coffees and teas, but they also serve lunch daily.

“We do four different sandwiches and wraps a day as well as two salads a day. If it’s colder weather, we do soup as well. We also bake pastries and macaroons every day. Our pastries are baked by our Belgian pastry chef,” he said.

“We stick with local ingredients as much as we can. About 80 per cent of our food product is out of Big Bend Market.”

DOSE Coffee Co. is also famous for their ‘latte art’ in which lattes are served with a heart on top.

“We’re the only one in the City that does that. It’s really great.

It’s the mark of a professional

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COFFEE CREATORS - Winners of gold for Best New Business, DOSE Coffee Co. crew from left Rolland Forsland, Levi Halsey, Sydney Schur and Emmalee Madden each hold their favourite drink. and people eat and drink with their eyes first.”

Forsland added what sets DOSE Coffee Co. apart from other shops like them is the staff.

“Our staff is amazing. They take good care of our customers. And beyond just being great

to deal with, they want to learn more themselves to help create a better product,” he said. “We do our best in choosing a good quality product, but they really do a great job of serving the customer and providing the best end product.”

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

In the future, Forsland said he sees himself and McCracken expanding their business.

“We see ourselves as still in this location but when the Riverlands development starts we plan on opening another café there.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

Best of SILVE Red Deer R WIN NER

Bulk & Natural Foods Hot Tub/S

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THANK YOU RED DEER! We would like to thank you for your support, your continued patronage and for nominating us the best health food store in Red Deer!

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To our loyal and valued customers for all your generous votes. We cater to your needs for all occasions.

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Red Deer Express 39

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Thanks again Red Deer!

We are not just flowers, visit our new café!

403.342.1515 www.stemsfloral.ca 110, 4309 52 ND Avenue (across from the hospital in the Skyway Professional Centre – former Central Alberta Florist’s location)

GROWING YOUR BUSINESS.

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The smallest change in your business strategy can be the difference between one good year and a long-term trend of growth and success. MNP’s Red Deer team delivers business strategies in tax, transition planning, government programs and more to help you manage risk, plan for the future and strengthen your overall operation.

CAMERA PRO - Collin Orthner, manager of McBain Camera, stands in front of a selection of Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express cameras. McBain Camera won gold for Best Camera Store.

Contact Melisa Milne, CA at 403.309.1230 or melisa.milne@mnp.ca

You make the donations.

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

You make the investments.

You make positive change in our community.

Charitable Organization 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Thank you for inspiring change that impacts the lives of people in our community.

Thank you Red Deer and Surrounding Area!

Best o f Red D SILVE R WIN eer NER

Nail Salo

n 2013 Choic Readers’ e Awa rds

We’re happy to serve you from hands to feet!

CN Nails

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40 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

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Red Deer Express 41

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Local business garners gold in respective category

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express A locally owned and operated retail store which is located in the heart of the City’s downtown has won top honours in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

Great Strides has won gold for Best Shoe Store in the City.

“It is such a great honour. We are a small business and it’s nice when small businesses get attention,” said Bev Krausher, owner of Great Strides. “It’s very rewarding and to have that recognition is really gratifying. It’s a big huge warm hug for us.”

Located along Little Gaetz Avenue, the retail store has been in its current location for three years and is celebrating their 11th year of business this year.

“This location is great. It is very visible and with the renewed interest in downtown Red Deer people are enjoying the shops in this area. There are a lot of interesting shops in the downtown and a lot of independently run stores and restaurants and there is just more going on in the downtown area in terms of entertainment and we also have the Wednesday farmer’s market now too. It’s been great for us.”

Krausher came to Red Deer

in 1991 and worked with the Red Deer Rebels’ management team when the franchise was first introduced to Central Alberta.

“When I decided to retire from hockey I wanted to have a business of my own and I felt that there wasn’t a good shoe store.

When you’re wanting to have a business of your own, you are wanting to fill a void in the market and this was it.”

Krausher said the love of shoes isn’t something that started when she was young. “I think some of my friends were more excited then I was to be opening a shoe store,” she said with a laugh.

“I was always more of a clothing girl. My mother was the shoe woman and I remember in my mother and father’s closet that my father had one pair of shoes in the corner and all of the rest was my mother’s shoes.

“How this business began was that I was always finding myself going to Calgary to buy the kind of shoes that I wanted. I didn’t think anyone had to do that.

I thought Red Deer was a big enough market to have a good store. Obviously now I am much more of a shoe girl than I ever was.” Krausher said good quality shoes and comfort are priorities when deciding on a product to

SHOE SHOW - Owner Bev Krausher shows off some of the collection of shoes available at Great Strides. The store Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express won gold for Best Shoe Store in the City. carry in her store.

“We have wonderful shoes to look at but I do not like uncomfortable shoes. Luckily we live in a time in this world that wonderful shoes can be comfortable. We love fun shoes, we love colour, we love fashion and style. We can’t be all things to all people but I think we are most things to most

THANKS, T HAN ANKS, S,

Y’AL YA ALL! LL L!!

people. We can help just about everyone.”

Krausher added her staff can also fit shoes for those who may have trouble finding a good pair.

“We do a variety of widths and we’ve been able to help people who are otherwise hard to fit.

Just because you may be hard to fit, doesn’t mean you can’t be

fashionable.”

Everything from day-to-day wear shoes as well as shoes for special occasions and weddings can be found at Great Strides.

The store also carries accessories including a selection of jewelry, scarves and of course boutiquestyle handbags as well. efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

Thank Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Red Deer!

Weight Loss Clinic 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Way to make us smile today!

U WEIGHT LOSS CLINIC OF RED DEER 104A 4315 55 AVENUE CALL 403.340.0612 OR EMAIL ureddeer@uweightloss.com

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... for voting KG Country 2013 BEST OF RED DEER GOLD Best Radio Station GOLD Best Radio DJ: Team of Greg, Tera Lee & Al

er d De of Re NER t s e B WIN GOLD

SILV SILVER LVEER Best Bes esst st Radio DJ: Greg

To all our wonderful customers

Thank you!

ffor voting us BEST NAIL SALON IN RED DEER n Nail Saloders’

Rea s 2013 e Award c Choi

lk-iinns Walk welcome Al

Greg Tera Lee

Celebrating

40

Years

Lovely Nail Salon

140 • 3020 • 22nd Street (Easthill Centre)

403-348-8288 403 348 82

42 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

ThanksforRed Deer your support!

And thanks to our amazing team!

We couldn’t do it without you!

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Plumbing Shop 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Proud to be part of our community for nearly 50 years!

Small

Business Week

Bath Fixtures Store 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Furnace/Duct Cleaner 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

403.343.6060

7026 Johnstone Drive Red Deer, AB

www.bruinsplumbing.com

Thank You Red Deer and Surrounding Area!

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Friday & Saturday Nights

Prime Rib includes choice of potato & seasonal vegetables

The Red Deer Express in partnership with the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce will publish a Small Business Week special feature October 2013.

Live Music 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Live music starts @ 8pm!

Come try our new menu! only

The Hideout

Located directly South of Galaxy Theatre

23

$ 403.348.5309

www.the-hideout.com

Thank You Red Deer! >L /LHYK @V\

W

e would like to send a big thank you to Red Deer and the surrounding communities for voting us a Red Deer Express Bronze Business. Thank you to all of our wonderful clients who took the time to vote for us!

Allison would also like to send a big thank you and welcome to Dr. Susan Hopf, who has recently joined our team. We are excited to continue serving the community!

Your Hearing Aid Centre Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

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Dr. Allison Fox

M.Sc., Au.D. Audiologist/Owner

Dr. Susan Hopf M.Sc., Au.D. Audiologist

5125 – 48th Street Red Deer, AB T4N 1T1 Hearing Solutions 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

www.strategichearingsolutions.com

This is a perfect opportunity to highlight your small business.

If you would like more information on this special feature, contact a Red Deer Express Sales Representative @

403 346 3356

Red Deer Express 43

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

Owner of men’s wear store relishes in success

BY ALF CRYDERMAN Red Deer Express You know you are doing something right when you win the gold Best of Red Deer Award for Best Men’s Clothing Store again and again. Milano for Men Owner Ajoy Joseph isn’t sure how many times his Southpointe Common store has won gold, but several years worth of such wins are prominently displayed by the entrance as you come in.

The store also won silver this year for Best Formal Wear Store.

What’s the secret to their success?

“It’s not so much a secret. It’s longevity. We’ve built a loyal client base. We’re thankful for the local support we get here in Red Deer,” he said.

“What makes us different is service and value. We believe in Canadian-made goods as much as we can. Canadian-made products get first consideration. We offer a Canadian-made suit, all wool, made in Montreal, starting at $450. Everyone should do their part to support local and shop Canadian.”

Joseph came from Grande Prairie in 1992 to manage Milano for Men for a previous owner.

He took over the business in 1996.

SWEET SUIT - Owner of Milano For Men Ajoy Joseph displays one of the many suits available at his store. Milano Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express for Men won gold for Best Men’s Clothing Store and silver for Best Formal Wear Store.

Working in men’s fashions, “Has always been in my blood.

It’s something I’m passionate about, something I enjoy doing.

As many years as I’ve been in the business I still like coming to work every day.

“There are other ways to make

more money, but I like this. Red Deer is home. The store has been here 21 years and I plan on it being here another 21 years.”

r Dee ed R R f E to NN Bes LD WI GO

Red Deer

tore ture Sders’ i n r u F Rea ards

3 201 ice Aw Cho

#1 Eye Care Centre in Red Deer!

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Optical 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

Dr. Tom Lampard

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Dr. Roger Rudyk

Dr. Scott Stevenson

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Dr Daryl Berger

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4402-49 Ave. Red Deer , AB 403-342-0333

•Classic •Traditional •Modern

Milano for Men offers everything from socks and underwear to jeans and tuxedos.

“We’re always looking for new products. We let our customers tell us what they want to see in the store. If you don’t see it in the store, ask for it. If enough people ask for it, it’ll be here.”

When it comes to shopping for men’s fashions Joseph advises people to do their homework and find out where the clothing they buy actually comes from. “There is a lot of misleading advertising out there,” and shoppers are not always getting the best price or quality.

“Red Deer is an awesome place to do business. It has everything to offer that the big cities do and Edmonton and Calgary aren’t far away.

“We’ve got a good client base of people that come from Edmonton and Calgary or out of town.”

When it comes to giving back to the community Joseph recalls his father’s advice.

“You can’t go through life with two catcher’s mitts. It’s not all take, you’ve got to give something back. I give back to the community (for example, the Red Deer College Foundation) and that’s my way of making my community a better place to live.” acryderman@reddeerexpress.com

TTo Our Valued Customers

Thank You

for your Loyal Support in Selecting Sims Furniture

GOLD

for BEST FURNITURE STORE fo

Visit our Spacious Showroom today and experience the largest selection of quality home furnishings available. Let our exceptional staff assist you with your shopping, whatever your style.

403-342-7467

2811 Bremner Ave. Red Deer

www.simsfurniture.com Central Alberta’s Largest Furniture Store

44 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Coming September 18

th

Check out the August publications of the Red Deer Express for the Golden Fork ballot, then pick your favourites!

2013

e c i o h C ’ s r e d a Re Awards

Red Deer Express 45

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

36th St. & Gaetz Ave.

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Dry Cleaner

Tailor/Alterations

Formal Wear

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

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5L^ZWHWLYZ YLHJO VM 0U[LYUL[ \ZLYZ PU HU H]LYHNL ^LLR HJYVZZ T\S[PWSL WSH[MVYTZ HUK KL]PZLZ 4VYL [OHU TPSSPVU HK\S[Z YLHK UL^ZWHWLYZ PU WYPU[ VUSPUL HUK VU TVIPSL KL]PJLZ PU [OL WHZ[ ^LLR 4\S[PWSL WSH[MVYTZ HYL \ZLK I` VM JVUZ\TLYZ ^OV HJJLZZ UL^ZWHWLY JVU[LU[ PU HU H]LYHNL ^LLR 5L^ZWHWLY TLKPH JVUZ\TLYZ HJ[ VU UL^ZWHWLY KPNP[HS HKZ ¶ [VVR HJ[PVU VU HU HK PU [OL WHZ[ TVU[O 5L^ZWHWLY JPYJ\SHYZ HYL \ZLK I` VM UL^ZWHWLY TLKPH \ZLYZ PU HU H]LYHNL TVU[O As published by Editor & Publisher June 2012

46 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

CHAMPION GROOMERS - Louise Anger, owner/operator of Doggy Doos & Kitties Too admires some of the many animals they groom to perfection. The business won gold for Best Pet Groomer in Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express this year’s Best of Red Deer.

Thank You Red Deer!

Your support makes it worthwhile!

Gold Winner Vote17dyears in a row!

MAIN STORE

LACOMBE

3433 Gaetz Ave. 403.343.3133

4718 - 49B Ave. 403.782.4421

NORTH STORE

INNISFAIL

6842 Gaetz Ave. 403.343.8300

119, 4804 50 St. 403.227.5556

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Paint Store 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

www.Fargeys.com

Red Deer Express 47

Wednesday, June 26, 2013, Best of Red Deer 2013

SEASON

2013

TO DRIVE $ 198

RACE-INSPIRED PERFORMANCE. AWE-INSPIRING PRICING. *

BI-WEEKLY PAYMENT

WITH

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

4,000

$

0

$ Customer Service

*

DOWN

PAYMENT

1.9

%*

*DELIVERY CREDIT

0

$

*

48 MONTH LEASE

SECURITY DEPOSIT

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

ACURA OF RED DEER

1808 – 49TH AVENUE 1.877.9ACURA9 403.343.0400 ACURAREDDEER.CA *Lease offer is available through Acura Financial Services Inc. on approved credit. 2013 TL 6-speed automatic (Model UA8F2DJ) leased at 1.9% APR for 48 months. Bi-weekly payment is $198 (includes $1,945 freight & PDI), with $0 ($4,610 less $4,000 delivery credit to retailer and $610 retailer contribution) down payment. First payment, $100 excise tax, and $20 new tire surcharge, $6.25 AMVIC fee and $0 security deposit due at lease inception. Total lease obligation is $20,718.25. Option to purchase at lease end for $18,776.50 plus taxes. 80,000 kilometre allowance; charge of $0.15/km for excess kilometres. GST, license, insurance and registration are extra.

Retailer may lease/sell for less. Retailer order/trade may be necessary. Vehicle shown for illustration purposes only. Offer is only valid for Alberta residents at Alberta Acura retailers until July 2, 2013. See Acura of Red Deer for full details.

AMVIC LICENSEES

48 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2013, Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Dave and Bernice Church have been the owners of A-1 Transmission since 1990, making them the longest running owner-operated transmission repair shop in Red Deer. Their commitment to quality workmanship and fair pricing has led them to expand their business to full service automotive. Their services include electrical, diagnostic and repair, wheel alignments, brakes and all driveline related services. As always, brake, front steering, suspension inspections, and scanning are free of charge. They are also licensed for out of province inspections too.

Their slogan has been for the past 21 years “The Little Shop That Cares.” They might have to change this to “The Big Shop That Still Cares.” They now have over 15,000 square feet of shop to take care of all your automotive needs.

They have some of the very best service technicians. They include General Manager Scott Hodgson, who brings 15 years experience and is second to none in his dedication to quality workmanship. Allison Transmission specialist Bert Bagley brings with him many years of experience with large Allison Transmissions as well as many years as a general technician.

Charles (Chuck) Forder brings 21 years experience as well as a exemplary commitment to quality workmanship. Chris Collins and Kevin Turner round out the team as a pair of top notch service techs. Amber Guy is now in our ofÀce as our bookkeeper.

All of the team at A-1 Transmission and Auto Service are thrilled to have been chosen as Red Deer’s favourite Transmission Repair Shop (for the 17th time) and are looking forward being voted Red Deer’s favourite general repair shop in the future!

Dave and Bernice Church, as well as Scott Hodgson, warmly invite you to visit them at their newly renovated location!

Dave, Bernice & Company: your honesty and I would like to thank you for After overhauling my integrity in our business dealings. r the car. Once unde ared appe leak oil an , transmission ght that maybe thou he it, d the service writer inspecte from the work, erly prop lled insta not was et a gask ed it in and apolowhich was just done, and he book time. rst ß the gized for not getting it right be brought in and During the time the car was to some noise started lem, prob the osed diagn he when upon bringing it in and sion smis tran coming from the that he would me for my appointment, he assured a faulty part in was It did. he and lem ßnd the prob lled. This was insta just was h the transmission, whic was not related to that leak oil the as well as ßxed the work done on the car.

going to be mistakes.

In business and in life, there are unter them and enco we n Our character shows whe nstrated in not demo was ter char ious grac your take responsibility for trying to cover anything up and ately ensured that my everything that happened, it ultim rthy, just like your two trus and thy wor car was road business is. ness endeavors.

Good luck in your future busi Kind Regards, Duane McBain

We hold the longest GOLD Winning Streak in the Automotive Category for Best of Red Deer!

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Transmission Shop 2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

A big thank you for continuing to choose us as #1

Longest Owner Operated Transmission Repair Facility in Red Deer!

6521 - 67th Street Red Deer, AB

“The Little Shop that Cares”

AMA Auto Approved Repair Facility

403-347-9595 Free In Town Towing