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CUSTOM CREATIVITY - Owner of Classic Tattoo, Lucas Ford, puts the ﬁnishing touches on Stacy Johnston’s dragon leg sleeve. Classic Tattoo won gold for Best Tattoo Shop in this year’s Best of Red Deer, Readers’ Choice Awards.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

2 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

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Red Deer Express 3

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Mayor Tara Veer continues to be a City favourite BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express Mayor Tara Veer has long been a City favourite for many years as citizens have seen in the election polls. And her popularity continues to grow. This year she has won gold for Best Local Politician and bronze for Most Beloved Red Deerian in the Best of Red Deer. “The people of Red Deer have always been so good to me and I am so honoured, first and foremost to represent the people of Red Deer both in my past role and my new mandate as mayor, but also especially grateful for the Red Deer Express readership who took time to fill out ballots in all categories and who were so gracious in marking me in those categories,” she said. “The feeling is definitely mutual. I deeply care about the people of Red Deer and I am so grateful that they have given me this honour.” Born and raised in Red Deer, Veer, who served as councillor from 2004 to 2013 before being elected as the City’s mayor last fall, found a love for politics early on. “Ever since I was quite young – about four or five – I had a strong sense of justice and of right and wrong,” she said. “Even as a little girl if there was something I didn’t agree with at school or in our household, I certainly made my opinions known. “I kind of laugh because I can see that I had an interest in politics very young. If there was something that I wanted or if there was a change I wanted to bring about in our household I would campaign and I had all kinds of picket signs, or I would do a survey and show the percentage of what people wanted.” Veer also recalls when she was in Grade 4 being able to stay up late with her dad to watch the federal election results come in on television. “I didn’t really have an understanding of political parties at that time, but there was something about the whole political process and democracy that inspired me even that young,” she said with a laugh. “I remember going to school the next day and talking about the election and I remember kids kind of looking at me saying how boring that was.” Veer’s first job on the political scene was working as a constituency assistant for former Red Deer MP Bob Mills. There she got her first taste of running an election campaign. She then ran for City council in the 2004 election against 24 other candidates. She was successful in her bid and served as a councillor for nine years. Last October, Veer was elected as mayor, and amongst all of the excitement on election night, was quickly humbled after a comment from her then 10-year-old niece.

TOP JOB - Mayor Tara Veer has received two awards in this year’s Best of Red Deer. She won gold for Best Local Politician and bronze for Most Beloved Red Deerian. “When it became clear there was a decision, my campaign manager had turned to me and said ‘Congratulations, you’re the mayor’, my niece, the first thing after hearing that said to me ‘Well if you think I’m going to call you your worship, you’ve got another thing coming’,” she laughed. “So I had the mandate of the public in my new role but I was very quickly kept humble by one of my favourite little people in my life.” Veer added she has enjoyed her new position immensely in the last eight months. “I have many surreal moments where I have reflected back on really the dream of a five-year-old girl and of an elementary schoolaged child who sat in Council Chambers when Aspen Heights Elementary School came and toured City Hall. I come to the office everyday and I have been given this amazing opportunity to influence the public agenda in the best interests of nearly 100,000 citizens in Alberta’s emerging City,” she said. “Every day there’s almost a surreal element of the culmination of a lifelong dream, but also being charged with this great responsibility to do right by the people that have entrusted me with this position. I live with that awareness everyday. I think

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

it compels me to be accessible to our public, to work hard, to look ahead in decision-making and to build relationships with my council, with City administration, with our community, with our region and with our province.” She added the day-to-day responsibilities in her new post have come very naturally.

‘I COME TO THE OFFICE EVERYDAY AND I HAVE BEEN GIVEN THIS AMAZING OPPORTUNITY TO INFLUENCE THE PUBLIC AGENDA IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF NEARLY 100,000 CITIZENS IN ALBERTA’S EMERGING CITY.’ TARA VEER “Because I served nine years on council I entered the mayor’s ofﬁce with a breadth and depth of understanding of City history, City issues and emerging issues and a sense of where Red Deer needs to go. I think that has been the fruit of nine years of hard work prior to that.” However, Veer said there are some things about the mayor’s job that she didn’t quite anticipate. “One of those is the inﬂu-

ence of my words of speaking a word or maybe asking a question and then that having a resounding impact or being perceived as a direction, when maybe I was just inquiring about something in order to piece it together for a decision that I need to make. I’ve learned to really learn to measure my words because my words have inﬂuence. I have always done that as a councillor but I notice the reach of that far more in the mayor’s ofﬁce,” she said. “The second area that I’ve noticed even more so is that I think when you are in public life there is very little differentiation between your public life and your private life, especially in being the mayor. When I’m out, I’m on. Particularly when you are the mayor, you are always the mayor. If there’s an emergency in the City and it’s two in the morning, I need to be available. “I embrace that but I think I didn’t realize how that would affect my friends and family. People will often make highly operational inquiries (regarding the City) of my mom and dad when they are at the movies and so I think my friends and family probably hand out more business cards then I do,” she laughed. Meanwhile, as to the Best of Red Deer, Veer said she takes

great stock in the results. “Elections always provide us with a very strong deﬁnitive check in with the public and elections give citizens a new mandate, or not, and give a strong insight into what the public is thinking,” she said. “But I have always viewed the annual Best of Red Deer as a mid-year check in because as a politician and one who’s personally committed to community building, it’s always provided me with a formal mechanism of feedback into the representation that I have been able to provide in my formal work on council. “Particularly in my inaugural year as mayor, it’s validating to be honoured in the Best Politician category because it gives me a window into the public’s mindset of my leadership thus far. And in the Beloved Red Deerian category – I am very committed to community building both in my personal life as well as my professional life and so to be acknowledged in that category as well, is also a great honour,” she said. “I am in politics to make Red Deer a better place to live and it just tells me that people recognize that I am very genuine in my desire to do that.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

4 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

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Red Deer Express 5

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

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6 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Strategic Hearing Solutions wins gold BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express A local hearing centre, which has been operating for nearly four years, has won gold in this year’s Best of Red Deer. Strategic Hearing Solutions has received the top honour in the Best Hearing Solutions category. Dr. Allison Fox, audiologist and owner of the business said it is humbling to win the award. “It makes me feel motivated to continue to work hard and to do as much as we can to help people communicate better,” she said. “It’s thrilling really because we haven’t been in business for a really long time. We are locally-owned and to be top of mind for people and to think that we have helped enough people in four years’ time that enough people would think highly of us to vote for us – it’s a real honour.” Strategic Hearing Solutions opened in September 2010 and offers diagnostic assessments, industrial baselines, testing for in-

fants and children and provides hearing aid ﬁttings, to swim molds and custom hearing protection, among other products. “We are a full-service audiology and hearing aid clinic,” said Fox, who has been working as an audiologist in Red Deer for 16 years. “Our motto from the beginning has been service above self. The number one thing is that we want our clients to feel welcome here and that we are going to serve them to the best of our ability. “We really treat every one of our clients as if they are going to be a long-time friend.” Staff at Strategic Hearing Solutions include Fox, along with Dr. Susan Hopf, who is an audiologist, Melody Carberry who is an audiometric technician and Maja Carnoky who is in reception. Julia Maksymetz, a summer student, is also working at the clinic. Fox added she loves working in the ﬁeld because she is able to help people improve the quality

HEARING EXPERTS - Dr. Allison Fox, Melody Carberry, Mija Carnoky, and Dr. Susan Hopf are the team at Strategic Hearing Solutions who ensure they give the quality care to their clients that landed them gold in this year’s category. Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

of their lives. “I love that the work I do helps people communicate better with all of the people they love. It’s all

about helping people with their ability to communicate,” said Fox. “I also love that I can meet new people everyday as well and many

of them become long-term clients.” Fox added the success of Strategic Hearing Solutions can be attributed

to her staff. “I work with people who are committed to the same things. This is a real team effort.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

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Red Deer Express 7

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

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8 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

CentreFest lands gold for top local festival Popular summer event features new performers every year BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express Loads of summer fun can be found at Red Deer’s annual street festival CentreFest, with this year’s event slated for July 26-27th. This summer’s event, located in the downtown core, heads into its 12th year this summer. Organizers took gold for Best Indoor/Outdoor Festival in this year’s Best of Red Deer. More than 28,000 people attended last year, and while the Circle Shows are at the Festival’s core, audiences can enjoy food and markets onsite as well. “I think one of the things about CentreFest is that we are accessible to everybody,” explains Janice Shimek, festival director. “It doesn’t cost to come through the gates, so I think that’s the draw for a lot of families.” Another plus? The slate of performers changes from year to year thanks to Bob Palmer – a performer himself (Flyin’ Bob) who gets in touch with some of the finest artists available today. “We contracted him three years ago to be the Festival curator, and he’s in the business so he’s out there performing with them in different locations. He sees them firsthand. And he tries to change it up every year.” Jan Penney, chair of the board, agrees. “We also have so much to do on site – it’s a really good, all-ages family event.” This year, Circle Show performers include Thom Sellectomy an ‘unparalleled street raconteur that will make a crowded hall or the busiest of streets feel like an intimate living room as he invites you to listen up to tales of 20-plus years on the road, while he does all of the things mother said you should never try at ance performer and his cast of stilt characters have home.’ been a hit at festivals across western Canada. With classic clown training and 20 years of experiFrom start to finish it’s a delightful experience, and ence, this comedy sword-swallowing show is sure to CentreFest board members not only enjoy planning please. the event all year long, they usually are onhand for Jonathan Park showcases routines including ev- most of the actual Festival as well, says Penney. “We erything from water, scarf dancing, a marshmallow often say, just come down for a shift or two. But no. routine and a plate-spinning routine. We’ve worked hard and we just want His six-foot unicycle finale towers over to be there. I love it.” the crowd and his plate-spinning finale Other highlights include Circus “WE ALSO HAVE SO whips the crowd into a frenzy as they World - a ‘child friendly’ environMUCH TO DO ON SITE yell out which plate is most in danger ment that provides an activity area – IT’S A REALLY GOOD, of falling. where kids can learn through parJosette and Francoise Lepine serve ticipation some ‘street performing ALL-AGES FAMILY up a cocktail of ‘funny theater, puppetskills.’ The area used to be known EVENT.” ry, circus, magic and typically French as Kids World but organizers felt the craziness’. time was right to change to a differJAN PENNEY The twins juggle with umbrellas, ent, more ‘hands-on’ format. make French fries appear at a crazy “There will still be that play area speed, fight with giant pink monsters for the toddlers, but the and even enter into big balloons. rovers will be spending time in City Hall The Red Trouser Show offers a combination of ac- Park and they are actually going to be robatics with knife and fire juggling. And after a run teaching circus skills. So the (kids) will be with the Big Apple Circus, Rob Torres returns to Red learning how to do stilt-walking, juggling Deer. For the past two decades Torres has traveled to – whatever skills the performers can give.” more than 45 countries performing in theatres, circusUltimately, the ability to plan and host Cenes, galas, TV and film. treFest relies on the community and corporate sponPogo Fred, a Guinness world record holder, puts on sorship, says Shimek. And there are still opportunities an acrobatic, extreme, stunt pogo show. for folks and companies to support the event that way. Among the Roving Performers are Jason Kodie who There is also plenty of room for volunteer help at plays piano while riding a bike. Kodie will be bringing CentreFest – typically about 100 people assist in some mobile music to every corner of CentreFest. capacity over the two days. Clark Robertson, ‘That Don Cherry Guy’, and a 21For details, call the Red Deer Summer CentreFest year veteran comedian, will be strolling around dis- Society at 403-872-3361 or email info@centrefest.ca. cussing anything you want, like hockey, or hockey, or Visit www.centrefest.ca. editor@reddeerexpress.com even hockey. Schuyler Snowdon is a juggler and bal-

Red Deer Express 9

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Gold winner Dance Magic Studio broadens mandate BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express A longstanding dance studio in the City has garnered the highest honour in this year’s Best of Red Deer. Dance Magic won gold for Best Dance Studio. Christine Slaymaker, owner and dance teacher at Dance Magic Studio in Red Deer, said to receive the award is an honour. “It’s great and it’s wonderful – thank you Red Deer,” she said. “It’s wonderful to think that people are thinking of us. There are obviously a lot of choices – I think that Red Deer is a community that has an offering of a variety in terms of programs and dance schools. To be at the top of the pick for our families is an honour.” Dance Magic has two studios in the City – one at the Collicutt Centre and a second in Heritage Plaza on the north end. “The Collicutt Centre is our primary location and we opened the studio in Heritage Plaza four years ago. When we opened this studio we expanded our programs to offer music lessons – so we offer voice, guitar and piano. We also offer a music class for babies,” said Slaymaker. The studio in Heritage Plaza

will be relocating later this year to a larger location just west of Save On Foods in the City’s north side. “In our larger location we will also offer banjo and ukulele too,” she said, adding their current north location is 1,750 sq. ft. and their new location will have 6,000 sq. ft. “It’s going to be much nicer for us. We’ve maxed out our capacity at our current north location. The music program is one that bloomed really quickly for us so this will provide us some room for growth.” The non-competitive studio which is home to 1,400 students, offers a wide range of dance classes including ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, musical theatre, lyrical, contemporary, all boys funk, hip-hop, break dance, cheer and zumba, among others. After moving their second studio, Dance Magic will also offer an acro-dance program. “We wanted to offer something a little bit different. It’s going to be a busy season for sure, but it’s exciting to think about growth,” said Slaymaker. “One of the nice things about having dance and music in one location is the convenience for families, so being able to program for their children – everyone is so busy. Lots of our

LITTLE LEARNERS - Miss Brianne Lutz leads a group of young dancers through a recent class at Dance Magic Studio. The studio won gold for Best Dance Studio in the City. families have their son in guitar and then their daughter is in a dance class at the same time. It works well.” In 2015, Dance Magic will also open an arts-focused preschool as well. In addition, Slaymaker said she

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Tailor/Alterations

loves what she does because of her students. “It’s so wonderful. There is nothing not to love. It’s about the kids and the families. Being a non-competitive school I think we are here to create such a positive environment for our community.

photo submitted

The people who come to us want that positive, family-friendly environment,” she said. “Our slogan is ‘Where everyone is a star’ and that is really special. The kids are the biggest part of why we do what we do.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

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10 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

With your support we’ve served over 900 families. *Including out-of-town and day use families since opening in Feb. 2012

Get ‘Er Done Girls doing it right Bronze for Best Mortgage Brokerage BY KALISHA MENDONSA Red Deer Express

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Best of R ed Deer BRONZE WINNER

THANK YOU RED DEER Retirement H

For 10 years, the original Get ‘Er Done girl Alyson Thiessen has been working hard to develop trust among clients and a reputation for excellence in Red Deer. From a living room business to a brand new facility, from no clients to loyal customers and from a start-up to a 10-year anniversary, the girls have really pulled through. To honour Thiessen and the combined efforts of all those at Get ‘Er Done Girls, the citizens of Red Deer have expressed their thanks by voting in the Best of Red Deer, earning Get ‘Er Done Girls a bronze for Best Mortgage Brokerage. “I’m always honoured when we win anything. This is probably the best kind of award to win, because it’s our clients who are saying yes, we think you are the best,” said Thiessen. She added she feels Red Deer is “The most awesome ‘small big town’ you could ever be a part of.” She feels the community attitude and loyalty of customers is something that makes working in Red Deer special. “The other reason I love Red Deer is I can go out, see my clients and we sometimes end up being friends – living and doing a business here is the ultimate in accountability because you see everybody, they aren’t just numbers. None of my clients are a number,” she said. Thiessen and one of the partners and

owners of Get ‘Er Done Girls, Lesley Krawiec, have been working together since the company’s inception. Along with the efforts of the other owners, Katherine Meadows and Cheryl Kowalsky, the company has grown successful and according to Red Deer, has become one of the best mortgage broker firms around. “We were just very honoured, because it’s people that know us and who are voting for us. It’s a community and our family. It’s the sense of community,” said Krawiec. “I’m a strong believer in supporting local, and I think a lot of Red Deer is like that as well.” To be able to help people realize their dream of buying a home means a lot to the Get ‘Er Done Girls. “When people buy a house, they are creating a place for their lives. Wherever they purchase is going to determine huge aspects of their life,” said Thiessen. “We take that aspect seriously. They want to buy a home, and we want them to get it.” The Get ‘Er Done Girls offer services tailored to the needs of first-time home buyers, renovation financing, debt consolidation, vacation home buying, repairing credit, self-employed persons or those new to Canada, among others. “I know it sounds cliché to say I enjoy helping people but what we do - helping them find that shelter or dream home or whatever - it becomes gratifying to help with such an important piece of their life,” said Krawiec. kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

e 2014 Rea Choice Awders’ ards

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Thank You

Red Deer and Surrounding Area!

I am honoured to have received this award! er d De of Re ER Best ZE WINN N BRO

olitician Local PReadersd’s 2014 e Awar Choic

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Congratulations to all other Best of Red Deer winners! AWARD WINNING - The Get ‘Er Done Girls won bronze for Best Mortgage Brokerage. From left Katherine Meadows, Lesley Krawiec, Alyson Thiessen and Cheryl Kowalsky.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Red Deer Express 11

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

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12 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Sobeys Gaetz South takes pair of golds BY KALISHA MENDONSA Red Deer Express Sobeys Gaetz South has continued to impress Red Deer, earning the honour of gold for the two categories of Best Grocery Store and Best Customer Service/Friendliest Staff. “It’s very nice to know that we’re appreciated and have been recognized by our community for what we try and accomplish here at our store everyday,” said owner Trevor Aslin. “It’s very important as business owners and as local business people to give back to our community.” Sobeys Gaetz South is owned and operated by the Aslin family. Aslin and his wife Petra moved from Edmonton almost 16 years ago and purchased what was at the time the Eastview IDA (now Eastview Sobeys). They ran the store successfully for four and a half years and then moved into the south Gaetz location. “Many times we’ve said to each other even if we’d sold the store, we would not move back. We’d stay in Red Deer,” said Trevor. “It’s where our family is, and where our business is. And it’s been really, really good for us and for our family.” Sobeys Gaetz South offers more

than just great selection and variation in product. They also offer community support through fundraising for events such as the recent Rock the Change Suicide Awareness event that was held at Bower Ponds. “The tagline that is on the radio that our daughter does – ‘We’re passionate about food and our community’ - really sums up what we try to portray here at our store,” said Trevor. “There were a number of choices when we moved, and we’re very happy that its here we ended up. It’s a great community, and a wonderful small city.” Sobeys Gaetz South offers something called a localized initiative and what it does is recognize all local products produced, manufactured or grown in the Central Alberta region, by tagging them in the aisles. Trevor added that it is difﬁcult sometimes to ﬁnd locally grown goods, especially with produce, due to Alberta’s climate. However, the Aslins do their best to deal with local businesses and growers to promote their goods. Sobeys Gaetz South has developed a rapport among local sellers and growers that lets those small businesses know that if they want to sell their goods commercially, this location is going to

be their best bet in town. “We support local as much as we possibly can. If we can get produce and other things locally, we will try to do it,” said Petra. Sobeys Gaetz South stands out as a customer service excellence venue, due to their dedication

to fulfilling customers’ needs. If they are requested to order a specific product, order more organic goods, or things like gluten-free and diet specific foods, the Aslins will do the absolute best they can to get those items in stock. “The fact that we’re family-

owned and locally-owned means that we don’t have to jump through nearly as many hoops when it comes to special requests for customers. We can make those decisions right here in the store, and that helps a lot,” said Trevor. kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

FINE FOOD – Trevor and Petra Aslin display a stand of their ﬁnest apples available at their Sobey’s south location. Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express Sobey’s won two golds in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

Thank You,

Red Deer and Central Alberta for selecting us for the Readers’ Choice Awards 2014 “We are humbled and thrilled”

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

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Red Deer Express 13

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Piper Creek Veterinary Clinic voted number one BY KALISHA MENDONSA Red Deer Express Piper Creek Veterinary Clinic has been awarded Best Veterinary Clinic by the people of Red Deer for its excellent service and high standard of care. “It speaks volumes about our clients and certainly our staff. It’s a great feeling to be voted that way,” said owner Dr. Greg Linnell. “You can’t thank your clients enough, and their pets. That’s what makes the job.” Linnell was born and raised in Red Deer, receiving part of his education from Red Deer College and ﬁnishing it at the University of Alberta. He then went on to a veterinary school in Saskatoon. Following his education, he worked in Innisfail for two years before settling into the north end of Red Deer where his old practice was located. Currently, Piper Creek Veterinary Clinic is on the southeast end of Red Deer, in the Mackenzie Industrial Park. Linnell opened this facility in 2009 and has continued to be successful to this day. “I like Red Deer because a lot of people I see here, I will recognize on the street or in stores or just around town and that’s nice,” said Linnell.

“It gives you that close feeling with the community. I think with Calgary or Edmonton, you simply would not have that situation.” Linnell said that of course, he loves working with the ani-

mals. He said the variety in the job keeps it interesting and not knowing what the day will look like keeps him on his toes. “The people are also pretty exceptional. If you look at people as

a whole, I think most people who have animals are pretty caring people and you can’t thank your clients enough for making the job enjoyable, because that’s what it is.”

PET CARE - Piper Creek Veterinary Clinic took gold for Best Veterinary Clinic, thanks to the kind care of Dr. Greg Linnell, Dr. Charlotte MacFarlane and Dr. Craig Kosheluk.

The services at Piper Creek Veterinary Clinic include bone surgeries, spay/neuter surgeries, dental work, general wellness exams, vaccinations, micro-chipping, emergency care and even house calls. For specialized treatment in animals such as reptiles, call ahead and see if the doctor can help. For some services such as CT scanning and MRI imaging, referrals will be made from Piper Creek. “A lot of clinics are pretty similar but I think the biggest thing that sets us apart is that people come out here because they get a good feeling about us. “We try to be personable with people. We try to include them and make them feel like part of our family here – they are never just a number to us.” The other notable aspect of Piper Creek Veterinary Clinic is their connection with various rescue societies. They associate and help with vaccinations, wellness exams and adoptions. Linnell describes the partnership as a big part of what Piper Creek Veterinary Clinic does. In addition, he said they are willing to answer questions over the phone and attempt to be very accessible.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

Best of R ed Deer GOLD W INNER

Thank You Red Deer for once again voting us GOLD! A huge thank you to our dedicated staff who strive to make your Harley-Davidson® experience outstanding! 37 Petrolia Drive – Red Deer County, AB

403.341.3040

Motorcycle - Powersp

orts Dealer

2014 Re Choice aders’ Awards

www.gasolinealleyharleydavidson.com

14 Red Deer Express

Ready... Set...

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

GOLD!

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Thank you Red Deer & Central Alberta for another great year! With your support, we are able to achieve this award!

360

Gym 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

#107, 5301-43 St. Red Deer, AB 403.347.1707

www.360ﬁtness.ca Best of Red De er SILVER WINNER

SUMMER STYLE - Aaron Bouchard, owner of CROP Hair Boutique, takes a client’s style to Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express the next level. The business won gold for Best Hair Stylist/Salon.

Thank you Red Deer!

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Retirement Home 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

Gas Station

2014 R Choice eaders’ Awards

Thanks to you, we were able to achieve Top Ranking in this year’s

Best of Red Deer Readers’ Choice Awards 2014!

Earn Cash Back on Every Litre with your Litre Log Visit us online www.fasgasplus.ca f l

Red Deer’s Premiere Retirement Residence Aspen Ridge 3100 22 Street • Red Deer, AB • 403.341.5522

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Red Deer Express 15

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Thank You Red Deer!

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

New Car

Pre Owned

2014 Readersâ€™ Choice Awards

â€œI would like to extend a huge thank you to our staff whose hard work and dedication to customer satisfaction have made these Readersâ€™ Choice Awards possible. Way to go team!â€? Peter Swainson

Meet the Sales team 9VK 6Za\Z[

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www.southsidedodgechrysler.com

16 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Thank You

We’re Floored!

to all my fellow Red Deerians who voted – as a longtime citizenn of this amazing city, I share your enthusiasm and passion for Red Deer. We are blessed to live in such a vibrant community.

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Beloved Red Deerian 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

Thank You Red Deer!

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Tailor/Alterations 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

Bestt off Red Red dD Deer eer SILVER WINNER

36th St. & Gaetz Ave.

Thank you Red Deer for or choosing us as your favorite vorite Carpet/Tile Store! Carpe t /Tile C 2014

ceRead Stor e Aw ers ard ’ s

hoi

Dry Cleaner

#9, 7619-50 Ave • Red Deer, AB 403.346.7088 • centralalbertatileone.com

2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

D T L R A E W N R R E A T E S W E K W R O W & Thank you Red Deer & Central Alberta for your continued support! Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

5115 Gaetz Avenue Downtown

403-347-3149

Be GOst of R LD ed WIN D NEReer

Western Wear 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

Venture Plaza 6715 Gaetz Avenue

403-346-9347

Part of the community since 1956

Red Deer Express 17

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Thank You Central Alberta! Sun N Fun Pool & Spa truly has the best customers in Central Alberta! Sun N Fun Pool & Spa - Family Owned + Operated Proudly Serving Central Alberta since 1962!

Best of R ed SILVER W Deer INNER

Hot Tub/Spa De

aler

2014 Rea ders’ Choice Awards

CANADA DAY SALE 4.99% APR FOR 60 MONTHS* OR $500 BONUS CASH** www.sundancespas.ca * Customer may select special financing terms. Financing available on approved credit. ** The $500 Bonus Cash is available in the form of an instant rebate at the time of purchase and available on all 2013 and 2014 model year 880, 780 and Select Series spas. See participating dealers for complete terms and conditions.

Visit us at our NEW location! #3, 6782 - 50 Avenue, Red Deer, AB

PICTURE PERFECT POOCH - Fetch Haus groomers Krista Michel and Aimee Hemming give Hank the Golden Retriever a pampering day. Fetch Haus won gold for Best Pet Groomer and Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express gold for Best Pet Store.

GOLD!

403-346-4465 www.sunnfun.ca

Our name may be BRONZE... ...but really we are

Thank you Red Deer for voting us the #1 Tanning Salon for 8 consecutive years!

We thank you for your support over the last ten years in business! Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Tanning Salon 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

•Vitamin D Producing Lamps changed regularly •Tan Enhancing Accelerators •Self Tanning & Skin Care Products •Fully Automated Spray Tan Booth

Of¿cial spray tan booth used by

Easthill Centre · #600 3020 22nd St. Red Deer, AB · 403-358-5900

18 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

CAWES named Best Charitable Organization Central Alberta Women’s Emergency Shelter marking 30 years BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express An organization whose mandate is to offer a safe refuge for families experiencing family violence has landed gold for Best Charitable Organization in this year’s Best of Red Deer. “I’m thrilled and the board is thrilled as well,” said Ian Wheeliker, executive director, of the honour. “I’m very proud of our organization, and I’m very proud of the people who are connected to our organization from our board to our staff to our volunteers. “It says to me that the way we are working with people – the way we are working with the community and the way we are presenting ourselves is resonating well with the community – so I’m very proud of that.” The Central Alberta Women’s Emergency Shelter (CAWES) offers refuge, counseling and support for families experiencing family violence. Wheeliker said over the past six or seven years, Central Alberta has had one of the highest rates of reported domestic violence in the province. But he points out that more women are stepping forward to report cases of abuse as well, whereas in past eras it was often kept behind closed doors. Higher reported rates are therefore related to the work the RCMP and community agencies are doing as victims of domestic violence are increasingly feeling they will be believed and supported if they come forward. Wheeliker also said support from the community is critical for CAWES to carry out its mission. The province does provide funding, but the organization still has to fundraise for about $300,000 each year for various costs. “We are a community-based organization, and our board is made up of community volunteers from throughout Central Alberta, and we really could not exist or deliver the services we do if not for the support of our community.” Indeed, it’s been a strong and consistent partnership. “For the past 30 years, the Central Alberta community has supported the shelter and never have we been in ﬁnancial difﬁculty over those 30 years.” Wheeliker began his career in 1986 in Cape Breton working with young offenders. In 1994, he became the program coordinator of Second Chance, a program for men who batter. During his work in Nova Scotia he worked on the Frame Work for Action on Family Violence under the leadership of the Bill Gillis, minister of justice.

GIVING BACK - Ian Wheeliker, executive director of the Central Alberta Women’s Emergency Shelter takes a moment to relax in the living room of the facility. In 2007 he joined the Central Alberta Women’s Emergency Shelter Society as the executive director. Under his leadership the shelter has developed the ﬁrst children’s healing centre program in a Canadian shelter. Back in 2008, he recalls talking with other staff about how the shelter could bolster its service to children. “We decided that the minute children arrive in our shelter we needed to start the healing process,” he said. “It was a fantastic community project – about $400,000 was raised from all kinds of different agencies and foundations in the community – and within a year and a half we were operational with the ﬁrst-ever children’s healing centre modeled on the re-

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

search of Dr. Bruce Perry, a child psychiatrist. “There’s other shelters with therapists and children’s programs, but our program was unique in that it was modeled speciﬁcally around the neuroscience that was coming out about the impact of violence on children. Everything that happens in that healing centre is about destressing their little minds and bodies, engaging them in play and helping them to heal from what they have been exposed to through stories and play.” CAWES is also an advocate for educating the public on issues surrounding abuse. The CAWES Learning Centre provides information on several topics, such as recognizing abuse, understanding why women stay in abusive relationships, seeking

help from family and friends, root causes of violence and more. “We are constantly staying up on the new research, and we are constantly trying to move the needle in terms of prevention of domestic violence in communities. “We also know we aren’t going to move the needle on ending violence towards women and kids alone – we’ve really focused on building partnerships ﬁrst with the criminal justice system and now with the community. We will then build even more capacity to do prevention work and create more seamless service. We can also then help transition these families out of poverty and into a sustainable position in the community. “With so many of these families the secondary and huge issue

they are facing is poverty. So we are working with a number of Central Alberta agencies to look at affordable housing projects as a next step for so many of the families we have in common.” For Wheeliker, there really couldn’t be a more fulﬁlling line of work. “What really gets me moving and going to work everyday is knowing that we still have so much work to do to prevent the next generation of kids from being exposed to this and growing up to become either the next victims or the next perpetrators. “We have to do the prevention and intervention work now and do all we can so these kids don’t live with the life-long, devastating impact of exposure to domestic violence.” editor@reddeerexpress.com

Red Deer Express 19

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

CENTRAL ALBERTA CO-OP LTD. “Thank you to all of our customers….. we are a reÀection of the people and the communities we serve”

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Best Liquor Store

Best Gas Station

Best Pharmacy

Best Home Building Centre

Best Gardening Centre

Best Car Wash

2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

LOCALLY INVESTED We are your neighbors. Doing business with your Co-op creates good jobs and economic activity close to home.

E MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS M I T E F I L Cash. That’s your reward. Your Co-op membership offers you high-quality products and services and cash back. Our pro¿ts are your pro¿ts. OVER $4.4 MILLION CASH WAS PAID BACK TO CENTRAL ALBERTA CO-OP MEMBERS IN 2014.

COMMUNITY-MINDED We are part of your hometown and care about and support the causes that matter to you. OVER $200,000 WAS GIVEN BACK TO OUR COMMUNITIES IN 2013.

Red Deer • Innisfail Spruce View •Lacombe Stettler •Elnora Crossfield •Castor

6201-46 Avenue Red Deer, AB T4N 6Z1 www.centralab.coop

20 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

www.kippscott.ca

! R E E D RED Proud to be serving Central Alberta since 1968.

403.343.6633

6841 50th Ave Red Deer

Top of the North Hill

Red Deer Express 21

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Dentoom’s Greenhouse tops for Best Gardening Centre 2014 marks 60 years in the business And although most of their customers are in the western provinces, Dentoom’s has shipped plants to every province and Dentoom’s Greenhouse has taken the territory in Canada. top spot in the Best Gardening Centre catAs Bouw pointed out, they continue to egory in this year’s Best of Red Deer. balance the wholesale operation with a Dentoom’s has been providing a range thriving retail business. of gardening options for 60 years, said Re“We are big and open – and we listen to becca Bouw, whose family has owned the our customers, too,” she adds of the combusiness since 1992. pany’s ongoing success in connecting so Customers can check out their extensive strongly with the local community. selection of flowers, trees, shrubs, perenni“We are growing every year, too,” she als, vegetables and herbs. said. They also have hanging baskets, pots, “We are growing as Red Deer is growplanters and more. Other products run ing – we are bringing in more trees, more the gamut from garden accents including perennials, and we’re adding more space pottery, bistro sets and tables to selections to our greenhouse to accommodate the reof fertilizer, mulch, soil, soil amendments tail,” she said. and lava rock. “We also try and Harry Dentoom bring in new and dif‘IT MAKES ME HAPPY BECAUSE I’M ferent products.” started the business THE KIND OF PERSON WHO WANTS in Red Deer back in Years back, reTO SUPPORT LOCAL COMPANIES, quests for a Christ1954, and it was originally located in the mas-themed feature TOO.’ Glendale area. surfaced, so that was In 1992, Bouw’s established as well REBECCA BOUW parents purchased and has proven to be the business and in 1997 they bought land a popular aspect of the company’s schedin Linn Valley just west of the City. ule. They moved the growing business there, “We open in November for our Christwhere it’s been expanding ever since. mas season.” In 1994, Dentoom’s joined Proven WinLooking down the road, Bouw says ners Group and presented this new line to they’d like to one day open a bistro on-site their Canadian customers. as well. As to the site, an additional 40,000 sq. ft. “We want it to be a one-stop-shop.” expansion was completed in 2006 to better Meanwhile, there is no question Bouw is serve customers. in the right field – she is enthusiastic about Landing gold in this year’s Best of Red the company’s past, present and promising Deer was certainly good news, says Bouw, future. as it’s an affirmation that the business is And she says she’s always pleased to moving forward, growing and reaching the meet new folks who can explore what Dencommunity effectively. toom’s has to offer. “I really like dealing “It makes me happy because I’m the with customers and seeing new faces.” kind of person who wants to support local Dentoom’s is a current member of the companies, too. Canadian Ornamental Plant Foundation, “It also makes me happy that people are Alberta Greenhouse Growers Association, willing to support the family-owned busi- Flowers Canada, Landscape Alberta Nursness.” ery Trades Association and the Ohio FloAnother key to earning that success is rists’ Association. editor@reddeerexpress.com an emphasis on customer service, she said.

Thank You Red Deer

Deer f Red NER o t s IN Be ZE W BRON

& Central Alberta! U - STORE IT U - LOCK IT U - KEEP THE KEY

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express

y Compan StorageReaders’s 2014 e Award c Choi

•Residential •Commercial

Part of the Real Storage Group

North 4904 79 St

403.342.5292

South 88 Petrolia Drive

403.342.4110

www.abstoragereddeer.com Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Shoe Store 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

“Too Much of a Good Thing is Wonderful” Thank You Once Again shoe lovers of Red Deer and Central Alberta for your vote of conﬁdence and your support!

It is our pleasure to serve you!

403-352-2200

#4 4804 - 50 Ave. Red Deer, AB

www.ﬁneshoes.ca ed Deer Best of R INNER GOLD W

1954-2014 Celebrating

Thank 60 You! Red Deer gardeners

Years of Growing

for voting us e Garden Centrrs ’

ade 2014 Re wards Choice A

Best Garden Centre We’re thrilled right down tto the roots! *Annuals *Perennials *Herbs *Vegetables *Trees/Shrubs *Water Plants *Roses *Patio Tropicals Mon-Fri 9am–8pm Sat & Sun 9am–6pm

BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS - Rebecca and Zac Bouw tend to their marigolds at Dentoom’s Greenhouses. Dentoom’s took gold for Best Gardening Centre.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Hwy 11A (1/4 km West of Hwy #2) H

www.dentooms.com

22 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

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

Weâ€™re Celebrating

once again being selected GOLD WINNER Best Hot Tub Retailerr

Hot Tub R

tailer 2014 Choic Readersâ€™ e Awa rds

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

Best of R GOLD ed Deer WINN ER

Dr. Allison Fox

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

We are excited to continue serving the community! Dr. Susan Hopf M.Sc., Au.D. Audiologist

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Hot Tub Special Offer PL88 PL PL880 880 0

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harbour harbour 403-343-3620 Gaetz Ave., Red Deer spas spas 6751 www.harbourspas.com h b

Red Deer Express 23

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

FIRST RATE – Gloria Vasquez, owner of Gloria’s Alterations took the gold award for Best Tailor/Alterations for her machine and hand-stitch work.

er Red De Best of INNER GOLD W

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Thank you Red Deer for Decorating our walls in

Paint Store rs’

ade 2014 ReAwards e ic o h C

GOLD

...18 years in a row!

See for yourself how personalized service and premium products truly matter. Those of you who’ve already experienced the difference of shopping at our store – thank you – as always, we’re here and ready to help you with your next project. Our store professionals are trained specialists whose experience and helpful advice will ensure the success of every project.

www.fargeys.com

Quality Products ~ Quality People MAin Store 3433 Gaetz Ave. 403.343.3133

LAcombe 4718-498 Ave. 403.782.4421

Innisfail 119, 4804 50 Street 403.227.5556

24 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

ed Deer Best of R NER GOLD WIN

ders’ 2014 Rea ards w A e ic o h C

ed Deer Best of R INNER W SILVER

ders’ 2014 Rea ards w Choice A

ed Deer Best of R INNER BRONZE W

Publisher’s Message

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. Also, a big thank you to all of our dedicated readers who took the time to vote either by entering their vote on our printed newspaper ballot or through our online survey. This is my fourth 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.

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

Tracey Scheveers

ders’ 2014 Rea ards Choice Aw

publisher@reddeerexpress.com

Thank You, Red Deer! The residents of Red Deer have voted and Servus is the 2014 winner for: Silver – Best Customer Service/Friendliest Staff Silver – Financial Institution The Best of Red Deer gives us a glimpse of great things in our city and Servus is honored to have been voted for in these categories. It shows our commitment to building a better world—one member at a time. Clearview branch 67 Clearview Market Way 403.340.2575

Deer Park branch 4, 69 Dunlop Street 403.342.7222

North Hill branch 6757 – 50 Avenue 403.343.8955

Parkland Square branch 4901 – 48 Street 403.342.5533

servus.ca |187SERVUSCU

South Hill branch 3001 – 50 Avenue 403.343.0111

Taylor Plaza branch 400, 6730 Taylor Drive 403.347.0731

Red Deer Express 25

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Thanks Red Deer!

Best o f Red D SILVE R WIN eer NER

Weâ€™re so thrilled to be

Silver Winner

Travel Age

Best Travel Agency

ncy 2013 Choic Readersâ€™ e Awa rds

3 years iin n a row row! w!

Pack your bags... Weâ€™ll do the rest! 5250 - 22nd St. Red Deer (By Tony Romaâ€™s)

SHIPS REGISTRY:BERMUDA

www.cruiseshipcenters.ca/reddeer

403-341-0177

$% & '

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MASTER FRAMER â€“ Brian Rypstra displays one of the many frames and framing options available at his custom framing location, The Framing Nook. Rypstra and his teamâ€™s outstandJenna Swan/Red Deer Express ing frames have landed them gold for Best Picture Framing.

! " ! " ! ! !

!" #

Thank you Red Deer & Central Alberta for your continued support!

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Yoga Studio

Customer Service

2014 Readersâ€™ Choice Awards

Deer f Red ER o t s e B N R WIN SILVE

Centre Gardeninegadersâ€™

rds 2014 R e Awa Choic

R E D

ONLY

D E E R

Congratulations to all winners of the 2014 Readersâ€™ Choice Awards!

The Sp ecialis ts!

Located cated 3 minutes east off 30th Avenue on Highway 11

www.parklandgarden.ca

Open Year Round! Rou Hours:

Monday-Friday ÍťÇŁÍ˛Í˛ÂƒÂ?ÇŚÍşÇŁÍ˛Í˛Â’Â? Saturday ÍťÇŁÍ˛Í˛ÂƒÂ?ÇŚÍ¸ÇŁÍ˛Í˛Â’Â? Sunday ÍłÍ˛ÇŁÍ˛Í˛ÂƒÂ?ÇŚÍ¸ÇŁÍ˛Í˛Â’Â?

26 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Jamie Worthington entertains listeners via morning show Popular City DJ has taken the gold award in this year’s Best of Red Deer BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express A local radio DJ has received top honours in this year’s Best of Red Deer. Jamie Worthington, a morning show host for BIG 105, has been awarded gold for Best Radio DJ in the City and BIG 105 has won gold for Best Radio Station as well. “I’m intimated, I’m humbled and I’m honoured,” he said. “It’s intimidating because I feel like it’s just Bec (Dent) and I having a conversation everyday and this tells me that people are feeling like they are part of that conversation and part of the radio station. We wouldn’t be doing what we do without the people. “I think Red Deer has a lot of talent and a lot of great people in radio, so to be chosen for this is mind blowing.” Worthington, 35, was born in Calgary and grew up in Crossfield. He attended SAIT and graduated from the radio broadcast program in 2007. “I have family all over Central Alberta so when an opportunity came to move to Red Deer I really jumped at it,” he said. Worthington began working at BIG 105 in March of 2008. “I started out as swing shift meaning evenings and weekends on BIG 105 and 106.7 The Drive. With some moving on (of staff), the afternoon position came up and I did the afternoon show from 2008 to 2012 and then in September of 2012 I started doing the morning show.” Worthington said he loves being a part of the morning show – but the early mornings can be tough. “I was debating with my wife about moving to a position that lets me be done early in the day and take care of my daughter, etc. I realized everything on my con list was selfish – I don’t want to get up in the morning, I don’t want to go to bed when it’s still light out – I, I, I. “I realized when I put my pride aside and family first, it was a really easy decision.” Worthington and his cohost Dent are on the air during the BIG Breakfast Show Monday to Friday from 6-10 a.m. “I usually wander in just after 5 a.m. If I time it

EARLY RISER - BIG 105 DJ Jamie Worthington entertains listeners during the morning show every weekday. He won gold for Best Radio DJ in this year’s Best of Red Deer. right I have less than a ﬁve minute commute to work – but that’s anywhere in Red Deer really – if you hit every green light, anywhere is ﬁve minutes from work,” he laughed. He added before they go live, they recap the previous day, how they can improve on those things and what they can talk about

during that day. “We pretty much put the ﬁnishing touches on the show,” said Worthington. “A lot of work goes into sounding like you don’t know what you are doing.” He added inspiration for the BIG Breakfast Show comes from many places. “BIG 105 primarily has a female audience, so it’s

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

difﬁcult as a male to talk about things that women are interested in. I run probably 80 per cent of everything I am going to talk about by my wife. If she is interested in it or she’s talking about it or has read something online, then I know it’s of interest to her and it’s going to be an interest to our audience,” he

said. “Same thing with Bec – if she wants to talk about it, then I know it’s important.” As well, for Worthington, his connection with his listeners is important to him. “With social media it gives me an opportunity to talk to people directly, it gives me an opportunity to acknowledge their day, what

they are going through, their struggles – it’s another avenue to communicate with people other than the one way conversation that is radio.” Meanwhile, Worthington’s love for radio came at a young age. “When I was 10 that’s when I sort of got into music. I was listening to the radio incessantly and I realized that they were only having fun. It was a fun place to be and it sounded like they were having a good time. “And I thought that’s what I want to do because I never want to work – call it laziness or call it brilliance,” he said. “But I realized that if you can go into work everyday, enjoy what you do and get paid, it’s a brilliant career.” Worthington added he has enjoyed his career in Red Deer so far. “Red Deer was always a second home to me with family in Central Alberta. Like anything you set your five-year plan and towards the end of our five-year plan, the call came to do the morning show and so we extended that plan. “It’s been a great move, not only for myself career wise but for my family as well – our daughter was born here and my wife and I were living here when we were married. It’s been a big chapter in our lives and we don’t see it ending anytime soon – my boss might tell you otherwise, but we don’t plan on it ending anytime soon,” he laughed. In addition, Worthington gives much credit for the success of his career to his wife. “I’m very, very fortunate to have had the flexibility in my career that when a position became open that I could tackle it. That comes from having a very loving and very understanding and supportive spouse,” he said. “Everything that I do and everything that I am able to do is because of my incredible wife. Because she’s so wonderful and understanding I am able to take those opportunities. She’s the world to me. If I’m loving her, then she is loving our daughter and the circle of the Worthington family continues. “Behind every good man is a woman who tolerates that man,” he laughed. efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

Red Deer Express 27

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

2014 Readers’ Choice Awards RETAILERS Best Carpet/Tile Store .....................Central Alberta Tile One Best Furniture Store..........................................Sims Furniture Best Home Building Centre..................................Home Depot Best Paint Store ...................... Fargey’s Paint & Wallcovering Best Mattress Store ...........................................Sleep Country Best Hot Tub/Spa Retailer ..Harbour Spas Home and Leisure Best Computer/Home Electronics Store ................. Best Buy Best Camera Shop ........................................... McBain Camera Best Bridal Wear Store .......................... Victoria Lane Brides Best Formal Wear - Men’s ............... Moores Clothing for Men Best Formal Wear - Women’s .................................Le Chateau Best Men’s Clothing Store ............................... Milano For Men Best Women’s Clothing Store .........................................Ricki’s Best Western Wear Store ........................ Wei’s Western Wear Best Lingerie Store .........................................The Bra Lounge Best Shoe Store .............................. Great Strides Fine Shoes Best Floral Shop ....................................Stems Flowers & Café Best Jewellery Store .....................................Mitchell & Jewell Best Optical .................................................. Red Deer Eyecare Best Pet Store .......................................................... Fetch Haus Best Department Store ...................................... Hudson’s Bay Best Place To Shop ................................................ Bower Place Best Liquor Store ......... Central Alberta Co-op Liquor Store Best Grocery Store .................................. Sobeys Gaetz South Best Health Food/Supplement Store ....Nutter’s Bulk & Natural Foods Best Gardening Centre ....................Dentoom’s Greenhouses Best Sporting Goods Store ............................... Canadian Tire Best Tire Shop ................................................................ Kal Tire Best New Car Dealer ............ Kipp Scott GMC Cadillac Buick Best Used Car Dealer ....................................Red Deer Motors Best RV Dealer ........................................ Western RV Country Best Motorcycle/Powersports Dealer.. Gasoline Alley Harley Davidson Best Lawn & Garden Equipment Dealer ............Home Depot Best Farm Implement Dealer .....Deermart Equipment Sales

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

ENTERTAINMENT Nightclub ................................................................. Bellinis Place For Live Music ............................................ The Vat Place For Karaoke ..................................................Cheers Place For Dancing ................................................. Bellinis Place To Shoot Pool ..........................The Corner Pocket Golf Course ................................ River Bend Golf Course Indoor/Outdoor Festival .................................CentreFest

PEOPLE Best Esthetician/Salon .............................. Safari Spa & Salon Best Nail Technician/Salon ....................... Safari Spa & Salon Best Hair Stylist/Salon .............................Crop Hair Boutique Best Massage Therapist/Salon......... Associate Massage Therapy Best Realtor/Agency ..................... Kevin Lapp/Royal Lepage Best Radio DJ/Station .............. Jamie Worthington/BIG 105 Best Coach ............................................................... Doug Quinn

Best Volunteer.......................................................... Bob Bevins Most Beloved Red Deerian .................................Michael Dawe Best Corporate Citizen ......................................... Jack Donald Best Local Politician ...................................... Mayor Tara Veer Best City Councillor................................................. Paul Harris SERVICES Best Accounting Service ... CGL Strategic Business & Tax Advisors Best Dental Clinic ........................................ Bower Dental Centre Best Chiropractic Clinic ............ Family First Chiropractic Clinic Best Daycare ........................................................ Tiny Toes Castle Best Pharmacy .............................................. Shoppers Drug Mart Best Pet Groomer ..........................................................Fetch Haus Best Tanning Salon ............................................. The Bronze Zone Best Tattoo Shop ......................................................Classic Tattoo Best Fitness/Gym ........................................................ 360 Fitness Best Dance Studio ...................................................... Dance Magic Best Yoga Studio......................................................... Bikram Yoga Best Weight Loss Clinic .......................................... U Weight Loss Best Hearing Solutions ...................Strategic Hearing Solutions Best Picture Framing ....................................... The Framing Nook Best Dry Cleaner.................................................Sterling Cleaners Best Tailor/Alterations ................................... Gloria’s Alterations Best Carpet Cleaner ... Mancuso Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Best Furnace Cleaner .............. Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating Ltd. Best Home Security Provider ...The Phone Experts Communications Best Home Builder ................................................. Laebon Homes Best Retirement Home .............................................. Aspen Ridge Best Hotel .........................................................Sheraton Red Deer Best Financial Institution ................................... TD Canada Trust Best Mortgage Brokerage ...Dominion Lending/Regional Mortgage Best Moving Company ................ Two Small Men with Big Hearts Best Storage Rental ............................................Sentinel Storage Best Equipment Rental ...Parkland Party & Equipment Rentals Best Travel Agency ................................................................... AMA Best Vet Clinic ............................................ Piper Creek Vet Clinic Best Pet Boarding/Daycare ........................ 4 Paws Dog Daycare Best Auto Body Shop ..................................First Choice Collision Best RV Service/Repair ................................... Woody’s RV World Best Mufﬂer Shop ................ Custom Mufﬂer & Brake Shop Ltd. Best Transmission Shop ............................... Excell Transmission Best Oil/Lube Service ........................................................Mr. Lube Best Gas Station ........................ Central Alberta Co-op Gas Bar Best Car Wash ..................................................... Jumbo Car Wash Best Plumbing Company .... Bruin’s Plumbing and Heating Ltd. Best Electrical Company .................................. Red Deer Electric Best Funeral Services .......Parkland Funeral Home & Crematorium OTHER Best Customer Service/Friendliest Staff .... Sobeys Gaetz South Best Charitable Organization .... CA Women’s Emergency Shelter Best New Business ............................................. Tangelo Salon

28 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

2014 Readers’ Choice Awards BEST RETAILERS Best Carpet/Tile Store ..........................Carpet Colour Centre Best Furniture Store.........................................................Leon’s Best Home Building Centre..............Rona Home and Garden Best Paint Store .....................................................Home Depot Best Mattress Store ................................... Mattress Mattress Best Hot Tub/Spa Retailer .................. Sun N Fun Pool & Spa Best Computer/Home Electronics Store ........... Future Shop Best Camera Shop .............................................. London Drugs Best Bridal Wear Store ............................Your Wedding Place Best Formal Wear - Men’s ................................ Milano For Men Best Formal Wear - Women’s ............................. Hudson’s Bay Best Men’s Clothing Store .............. Moores Clothing for Men Best Women’s Clothing Store ................................... Reitmans Best Western Wear Store ... Lammle’s Western Wear & Tack Best Lingerie Store .....................................................La Senza Best Shoe Store ................................................. Payless Shoes Best Floral Shop .......................................... Floral Expressions Best Jewellery Store .................................... Clowes Jewellers Best Optical ............................................. Eyewear Liquidators Best Pet Store ............................................................. PetSmart Best Department Store ......................................Sears Canada Best Place To Shop .............................................. Parkland Mall Best Liquor Store ........................................Superstore Liquor Best Grocery Store .................................................. Superstore Best Health Food/Supplement Store ... Golden Sun Health Foods Best Gardening Centre ....... Parkland Nurseries & Garden Centre Best Sporting Goods Store .................................... Sport Chek Best Tire Shop ..................... Don’s Tire & Automotive Repair Best New Car Dealer ................................... MGM Ford Lincoln Best Used Car Dealer ........... Kipp Scott Buick GMC Cadillac Best RV Dealer ..................................................... Southside RV Best Motorcycle/Powersports Dealer.........Turple Bros Ltd. Best Lawn & Garden Equipment Dealer ......... Canadian Tire Best Farm Implement Dealer ............Pentagon Farm Centre

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

ENTERTAINMENT Nightclub ..................................................Lotus Nightclub Place For Live Music ........... Fratters Speakeasy Venue Place For Karaoke .................................... East 40th pub Place For Dancing ............................................Billy Bob’s Place To Shoot pool ................................ Bo’s Bar & Grill Golf Course ........................ Alberta Springs Golf Resort Indoor/Outdoor Festival ........................Westerner Days

PEOPLE Best Esthetician/Salon ...Totally Refreshed Steam And Spa Best Nail Technician/Salon ....................... Divine Nails & Spa Best Hair Stylist/Salon ...................................... Tangelo Salon Best Massage Therapist/Salon ... Totally Refreshed Steam And Spa Best Realtor/Agency ..................... Jerry Rush/Royal Lepage Best Radio DJ/Station ........Meg Tucker/100.7 FM The River Best Coach ..........................................................Natalie Brooks

Best Volunteer........................................................ Lyn Radford Most Beloved Red Deerian ........................Morris Flewwelling Best Corporate Citizen ........................................... Bob Bevins Best Local Politician ............................. Mary Anne Jablonski Best City Councillor............................................ Ken Johnston SERVICES Best Accounting Service ................Swainson Alexander LLP Best Dental Clinic ...................................Dr. Shauna R. Nesom Best Chiropractic Clinic ...... Baker Family Chiropractic & Wellness Best Daycare ............................................ Red Deer Child Care Best Pharmacy ......................................Central Alberta Co-op Best Pet Groomer .......................... Doggy Doos & Kitties Too Best Tanning Salon .......................... Fabutan Sun Tan Studios Best Tattoo Shop ...... Renaissance Tattoos & Body Piercing Best Fitness/Gym ............................................ Collicutt Centre Best Dance Studio ...................................... Chair Tease Dance Best Yoga Studio......... Breathing Room Yoga Studio + Café Best Weight Loss Clinic .........................................Jenny Craig Best Hearing Solutions ............. Beltone The Hearing Centre Best Picture Framing ...................................................Michaels Best Dry Cleaner.............................................Classic Cleaners Best Tailor/Alterations ...................................Classic Cleaners Best Carpet Cleaner .............................. Steam Clean Express Best Furnace Cleaner ..............Advanced Cleaning Solutions Best Home Security Provider ............. Red Deer Lock & Safe Best Home Builder ............................... Abbey Master Builder Best Retirement Home ................... Symphony Senior Living Best Hotel ........................................................ iHotel 67 Street Best Financial Institution ....................... Servus Credit Union Best Mortgage Brokerage ..................... Mortgage Architects Best Moving Company .......................Home To Home Moving Best Storage Rental .................................................. U Store-It Best equipment Rental .....................................United Rentals Best Travel Agency ..................... Expedia CruiseShipCenters Best Vet Clinic ..................................... Deer Park Pet Hospital Best Pet Boarding/Daycare ........................... Freedom House Best Auto Body Shop ........................ Boyd Autobody & Glass Best RV Service/Repair ......................... Western RV Country Best Mufﬂer Shop ...................... Midas Auto Service Experts Best Transmission Shop .....................Parkland Transmission Best Oil/Lube Service .............................................. Minit Lube Best Gas Station ............................................................Fas Gas Best Car Wash ............................................................... Mr. Suds Best Plumbing Company ............. G & G Plumbing & Heating Best Electrical Company ....................... Triple A Electric Ltd. Best Funeral Services ... Eventide Funeral Chapel & Crematorium OTHER Best Customer Service/Friendliest Staff .. Servus Credit Union Best Charitable Organization ................Red Deer Food Bank Best New Business .......................................... WHEAT Canada

Red Deer Express 29

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

2014 Readers’ Choice Awards BEST RETAILERS Best Carpet/Tile Store .................... Central Alberta Flooring Best Furniture Store................................................... The Brick Best Home Building Centre.................Central Alberta Co-op Best Paint Store ..............................................Cloverdale Paint Best Mattress Store ................... Mike’s Mattress Superstore Best Hot Tub/Spa Retailer .................................Dynasty Spas Best Computer/Home Electronics Store ........ London Drugs Best Camera Shop ................................................. Future Shop Best Bridal Wear Store ..................................... Bridal Couture Best Formal Wear - Men’s ...........................Rob Rae Clothiers Best Formal Wear - Women’s ..................Your Wedding Place Best Men’s Clothing Store ....................................... Boathouse Best Women’s Clothing Store ...........................Muse Clothing Best Western Wear Store..Jones Boys Saddlery & Western Wear Best Lingerie Store ............................................. Hudson’s Bay Best Shoe Store ................................................................... Aldo Best Floral Shop ....... La Petite Jaune Fleur Floral Boutique Best Jewellery Store ...................................Peoples Jewellers Best Optical ......................................................... Hakim Optical Best Pet Store ................................................................ Petland Best Department Store ...................... Winners & Homesense Best Place To Shop .............................. Winners & Homesense Best Liquor Store .......................................Solo Liquor Stores Best Grocery Store .........................................Canada Safeway Best Health Food/Supplement Store .............Bond Nutrition Best Gardening Centre ........................Central Alberta Co-op Best Sporting Goods Store .................... Play It Again Sports Best Tire Shop ..................................................... Canadian Tire Best New Car Dealer .................... Southside Dodge Chrysler Best Used Car Dealer ................... Southside Dodge Chrysler Best RV Dealer .................................Vellner Leisure Products Best Motorcycle/Powersports Dealer..Powersports Unlimited Best Lawn & Garden Equipment Dealer ............Peavey Mart Best Farm Implement Dealer ..............................Peavey Mart

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

ENTERTAINMENT Nightclub ............................................................Billy Bob’s Place For Live Music ..............................One Eleven Grill Place For Karaoke ....................................Lion’s Den Pub Place For Dancing ..................................Lotus Nightclub Place To Shoot pool ............................................. The Vat Golf Course .....................Red Deer Golf & Country Club Indoor/Outdoor Festival ....................... Festival of Trees

Best Best Best Best Best Best Best

PEOPLE Esthetician/Salon ...........................Follicles Hair Design Nail Technician/Salon ......................... Lovely Nail Salon Hair Stylist/Salon ...........................Follicles Hair Design Massage Therapist/Salon ............... Massage Above All Realtor/Agency ...................... Janice Resch/Century 21 Radio DJ/Station .......................... Zap/KRAZE 101.3 FM Coach ...................Mandi Smith/RD Catalina Swim Club

Best Volunteer........................................................... Terri Grills Most Beloved Red Deerian ............................ Mayor Tara Veer Best Corporate Citizen .........................................Joan Donald Best Local Politician ..................................................Cal Dallas Best City Councillor................................................ Frank Wong

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

SERVICES Accounting Service ........................................Collins Barrow Dental Clinic ...................................Appleway Dental Clinics Chiropractic Clinic .......Care Chiropractic Health & Rehab Daycare ....................................... Wonderflow School House Pharmacy ..................................................... Canada Safeway Pet Groomer ............................................................ PetSmart Tanning Salon ..............Rob’s Pro Muscle & Power Tanning Tattoo Shop ............................................. Native Arts Tattoo Fitness/Gym ...................................... Only Women’s Fitness Dance Studio .................................... Strive Dance Academy Yoga Studio..............................................Red Deer Hot Yoga Weight Loss Clinic ......................................Weight Watchers Hearing Solutions .......................................Connect Hearing Picture Framing ...................................... The Frame It Store Dry Cleaner...................................................... Ultra Cleaners Tailor/Alterations ............................................. We Sew Right Carpet Cleaner ..................... Advanced Cleaning Solutions Furnace Cleaner ....................Twin Peaks Furnace Cleaning Home Security Provider .........................Ambusch Security Home Builder ................................................ Bowood Homes Retirement Home ......... Redwoods Retirement Residence Hotel ............................................................. Black Knight Inn Financial Institution ........................................ ATB Financial Mortgage Brokerage .........................The Get’Er Done Girls Moving Company ......................... AMJ Campbell Van Lines Storage Rental ..................................................... AB Storage equipment Rental .......................................... Action Rentals Travel Agency .....................................................Marlin Travel Vet Clinic ........................... Cedarwood Veterinary Hospital Pet Boarding/Daycare ................... Piper Creek Pet Resort Auto Body Shop .......................................................... Carstar RV Service/Repair ........................................... Southside RV Muffler Shop .......... Budget Brake & Muffler Auto Centres Transmission Shop ...............................Mister Transmission Oil/Lube Service .....................................................Jiffy Lube Gas Station .................................................................. Centex Car Wash ............................................ Central Alberta Co-op Plumbing Company ........................ CJ Plumbing & Heating Electrical Company .................................. Sid’s Electric Ltd. Funeral Services ........ Red Deer Funeral Home & Crematorium

OTHER Best Customer Service/Friendliest Staff .. Bikram Yoga Red Deer Best Charitable Organization ........ Ronald McDonald House Best New Business ................................................ Lashing Out

30 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

2014

Readers’ Choice Awards On the Best of Red Deer ballot we posed the question, ‘What categories should we have included?’ We received many answers that were food and beverage related. Therefore, we at the Red Deer Express realized we need to promote our Golden Fork Awards more than we do. In 2010, staff at the Red Deer Express decided that honouring the best eateries and food and beverage providers should stand alone rather than be a part of the Best of Red Deer feature, hence the inception of

the Golden Fork Awards. The Best of Red Deer highlights the best in everything from retail, service, recreation and the best charities while the Golden Fork Awards name the best in anything to do with the fascinating world of food and beverage. Categories run the gamut from the finest in appetizers, breakfast and brunch to the best in pizza, sushi and ethnic eateries. Readers can also vote for friendliest staff, best pub/lounge, best patio and best waiter/waitress. Ballots for Golden Fork will be

available online as well as in print this September. Once ballots are calculated, winners will be notified and we will print a special feature similar to the Best of Red Deer announcing the gold, silver and bronze readers’ choice winners. As with the Best of Red Deer there is also a prize for one voter, $250 worth of gift certificates donated by several of the winning restaurants. We would like to thank everyone who took the time to vote in the Best of Red Deer and hope that the enthusiasm will extend to Golden Fork Awards.

Red Deer Express 31

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014 Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Thank you Red Deer!

Retirement Home 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

Thanks to you, we were able to achieve Top Rankings in this year’s

Best of Red Deer Readers’ Choice Awards 2014! Red Deer’s Premiere Retirement Residence Inglewood SHINING STARS – Directors of Tiny Toes Castle, Alvina Zaidie and Annie Zaidie play with Olivia Baayers, 4 and Isaac Mena, 5. The daycare took gold for Best Daycare.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

10 Inglewood Drive • Red Deer, AB • 403.346.1134

www.symphonyseniorliving.com

Thanks to all those who voted us

#1 Billiards Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

I would once again like to thank my dedicated staff and exceptional clients for their continued support. This award would not be possible without you!

Thank you, Veterinary Clinic

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Place to Shoot Pool 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

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2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

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32 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

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TOP MODEL – Owner of Gasoline Alley Harley Davidson Grant Price poses on a ﬂoor model. The dealership won gold for Best Motorcycle/Powersports Dealer.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Red Deer Express 33

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Parkland Party is City’s Thanks Red Deer for your support! ideal rental place And thanks to our amazing team!

BY KALISHA MENDONSA Red Deer Express

From automotive tool rentals to beautiful bridal accessories, Parkland Party & Equipment Rentals Ltd. has it all. The diversiﬁed rental agency has been honoured with gold for Best Equipment Rental in town. “I think it’s great that Red Deer is continuing to recognize our business as a leader in delivering the rental items that they’re looking for,” said Co-Owner Remi LeBlanc. “There are really three or four business models operating under the same roof here. We’re able to provide a lot of diversity and products that customers can put together and make their own creations from.” Eighteen years ago, Thrifty Rentals opened a service business that allowed customers to rent motorized power tools, wedding décor, party planning pieces and more. After transforming into Parkland Party Rentals, the diverse rental business still stands strong in Red Deer. From homeowner or do-it-yourself projects, wedding or gala planning, Parkland Party has something to offer. Parkland Party is one of only two Stihl power tool dealerships in town, giving them nearly exclusive access to the high performance gear. “There are so many different kinds of customers that come in the door when you have a shop with such diverse inventory. One customer could have greasy hands and bring back a chainsaw, while the next might be a proper young bride shopping with her family,” said LeBlanc. “When people come in, they’re forward and open and not afraid to let you know

what works and what doesn’t. I like working with people like that on a daily basis because it makes a good, healthy environment in the shop here.” LeBlanc explained that the diversity of customers keeps his job exciting because the staff at Parkland Party & Equipment Rentals are never sure of who they might be dealing with and it keeps them adapting to situations and customers’ needs. As far as keeping things fresh, the staff members of Parkland Party & Equipment Rentals are constantly searching for new trends, tools and products to offer their clients. Multiple times a year, representatives of the company travel to trade shows, bridal shows and meet with vendors to assess trends and changes in customer needs. For trending styles, the United States also has guidance to offer. LeBlanc said that all of the trends are, “Going with the times and demand of customers,” meaning that some things may be ‘trendy’ in the United States, but if the customers in Central Alberta show no interest, Parkland Party accommodates what they actually are seeking. “We have our vendors that we’ve dealt with for years and they’re always staying with the times as well. They always have new product coming in, so that’s a good way to stay on top of things,” said LeBlanc. “We’ve developed relationships with those vendors over the years, so it’s a great way for us to do business. That said, we’re not scared if we see something that will work to follow up on it.” LeBlanc added as a ﬁnal note, “The biggest thing that I’ve noticed for customers coming in - there always seems to be a growing demand for good times, and we can provide those here.”

Best of Red De er GOLD WINNER

We couldn’t do it without you!

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

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Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Local Politician

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

LOCAL POLITICIAN

2013 Readers’ Choice Awards

2012 Readers’ Choice Awards

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

LOCAL POLITICIAN

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

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Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

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Local Politician 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

Mary Anne Jablonski MLA Red Deer North • 403-342-2263

PERFECT PARTY - Marcel and Remi LeBlanc, owners of Parkland Party & Equipment Rentals, display a number of their extravagant rental options which won them gold for Best Equipment Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express Rental.

2009 Readers’ Choice Awards

2011 Readers’ Choice Awards

2008 Readers’ Choice Awards

2010 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.”

34 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

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Red Deer Express 35

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Community campaigns led by dedicated Red Deerian Lyn Radford lands silver for Best Volunteer in Best of Red Deer BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express With an abundance of major community events planning and management to her credit, Red Deerian Lyn Radford has landed silver for Best Volunteer in this year’s Best of Red Deer. Radford, who is originally from Edmonton, has called Red Deer home since 1986 – she and her husband Reg moved their family here that year and almost from the start, her sense of community spirit began to blossom. Even with the busyness of raising a family, she made sure to find ways to contribute – and she said part of that stems from the example set by her parents. “My parents gave back to their rural community – they would, for example, have friends who needed medical treatments in the city and might be afraid to drive. My mom would always be there, and she would take them,” she recalls. “By osmosis, you watch these kinds of things happen.” Lyn later became a teacher, but again the demands of a career and later family did nothing to quash her desire to be involved in her community. “Then you start getting involved in the non-profits because the kids are involved,” she explains of those earlier years. She remembers the establishment of the gymnastics centre at the Collicutt Centre as pivotal in her growing passion for volunteering. “I was watching these young athletes who were doing so well on the national and international stage, but they had very poor training facilities here in Red Deer. At that time, there were two warehouse bays put together, and that’s what the gymnastics club was training out of. “It didn’t make any sense at all. I said to the board that we needed to change this.” She approached City representatives and sought to build a partnership between the club and the City of Red Deer. The efforts proved successful, and work towards the current Collicutt Centre project was sparked. The gymnastics portion was the first phase that was eventually opened, she said. “Once you do that, you see that people have other projects and needs in the community and you move on from there.” She proved a natural with fundraising, leading and inspiring others to get behind a number of causes over the years. To name just a few of her accomplishments and areas of service, Radford is currently chair of the Red Deer 2019 Canada Winter Games Bid Committee.

SERVING - Red Deerian Lyn Radford has won silver in the Best Volunteer category in this year’s Best of Red Deer. Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

She is also on the board of governors for Red Deer College and the director of the Red Deer Games Foundation. She was the chair of the bid committee for the 2006 Alberta Summer Games, plus she chaired that overall event as well. “It was a very successful games, and it left a huge monetary legacy on top of the other kinds of legacies that happen when you have those kinds of games.” She served as the capital campaign chair of the Ronald McDonald House Central Alberta - the team raised $12 million in just 15 months - and she was also chair of the 2010 Olympic Torch Community Celebration.

It proved to be another enormously successful event the community really rallied around to support. “Red Deer had the highest per capita turn-out for the torch relay across Canada. I had an awesome team behind me doing that.” Radford also received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Red Deer & District Community Foundation Women of Excellence Awards in 2011. These days, her schedule is again humming with duties connected to chairing, as mentioned, the Red Deer 2019 Canada Winter Games Bid Committee. “We did some behind the scenes work for about two years

very informally,” she explains. Then the planning and organizing kicked into high gear and it’s been non-stop since. Things are indeed moving forward with solid support from the City and the community at large. The Games would take place in February of 2019 for two weeks, featuring 23 sports. Some 3,600 athletes, coaches and managers would be here, along with 1,500 technical representatives and ofﬁcials and some 25,000 visitors would be expected during the course of the event. With a successful bid, Red Deer will generate an estimated $132 million in economic impact as well, she said. Red Deerians will learn in Sep-

tember if the bid was successful. Meanwhile, on Aug. 22nd local residents will have a chance to convince the Canada Games Bid Evaluation Committee that Red Deer is the right choice for the Games. Now, it’s about building momentum and excitement for that special day. “We have to get out to as many sectors as we can in the next two months.” The Canada Games Council will then complete final reporting and recommendations which are forwarded to the Province for final consideration. “We are going to have a huge community rally downtown that will be over the noon hour and stretching into the early afternoon,” she said. “We need to have these Games – it’s our time. Red Deer is ready. I’m passionate about this, and I’m passionate about this community. We raised our family here, and I have a big belief that you have to give back.” The legacies would be profound, both in terms of capital projects and enriching the community’s social fabric. “We could also do more coaching programs so that we can mentor new young coaches that are coming in. As our City gets larger, we have to look at the fact that we want to keep our athletes at home as long as we can. “That’s one of the big things I struggle with, is having to watch these young athletes leave home up to 18 years old before they’ve gotten through high school. They’re trying to manage development in their sport, and just being a teenager.” These days, she admits that balancing the demands of community involvement with family life is a bit more challenging, with eight grandchildren. “I always worry that I’m missing part of their lives right now, but I know that it’s just for this short time. Then if we get the Games, I will be a part of it but that’s over a four-year period.” She also mentioned she’s starting to move off some boards. “It’s time for the younger generation to take over,” she says with a smile. Radford is absolutely gracious, accessible and warm – fitting traits for someone who truly has not only supported events in the past but successfully persuaded a multitude of others to get onboard as well. “I’ve always, always had a great team. That is integral, and you need to engage with everyone in a positive way.” For more about the Winter Games bid or how to help out in a volunteering capacity, check out www.facebook.com/reddeerisready or the web site at http:// www.reddeer.ca/reddeerisready. editor@reddeerexpress.com

36 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

SUMMER COLOURS - Tammie Koselek puts together a creative arrangement, one of which landed Floral Expressions silver for Best Floral Shop.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Thank You, Supporters. I look forward to continue serving the community. Huge thanks to my Campaign Team on my re-election last October. Best o f BRON Red Deer ZE WI NNER

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER City Coun

Left to Right: Jan KoÀn, Bryon Wright, Brenda Clampitt, Frank Wong (Missing-Craig Teal)

cillor 2014 Choic Readers’ e Awa rds

Oil/Lube Service 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

Thank You

from both locations in Red Deer No Appointment Necessary Downtown North 5420-49 Avenue 403.343.1420

www.minitlube.com

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Thank You Red Deer!

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Plumber

2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

S E RV IN G CE NTR A L A LBE RTA SI NC E 19 8 2 Residential • Commercial • Renovations Hot Water Heating • Boiler Systems • Infloor Heating Tankless Hot Water Heating Specialists Forced Air Heating • Air Conditioning

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Red Deer Express 37

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

THANK YOU Red Deer

you’ve been TRUSTING us for over 65 years and we’re proud of being Best of Red Deer winners since 1997! Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Dry Cleaner 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

STTERLING CLEANERS LTD. 4810 - 52 St. Red Deer, AB 48 403-346-4055

A Big Thank You!

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Thank You Red Deer For Voting Us Gold! FRIENDLY FARM SUPPLY – Tracy Drover, manager of Peavey Mart, displays the latest model of a Husqvarna ride-on lawn tractor, one of the many models that landed Peavey Mart bronze for Best Lawn and Garden Equipment Dealer, as well as bronze for Best Farm ImpleJenna Swan/Red Deer Express ment Dealer.

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

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

Equipment Rental 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

“Your Local, Independent Rental Store” www.parklandrentals.com 5929 48 Ave., Red Deer, AB 403-347-7733

Best of Red De er GOLD W INNER

Daycare

2014 R Choice eaders’ Awards

Thank you Red Deer, for voting us

s Tiny Toec are y a D le t s Ca thank our

to would like taff who have lS wonderful o hard. Also, all worked s and the entire ts the paren ity for their commun is making th support in ossible! award p

“ “Putting Quality Back Ba a Into Daycare” y

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38 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

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 BRONZE WINNER

Live Music

Places to Shoot Pool

2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

5301 43rd St. Red Deer•403-346-5636

THANK YOU Red Deer

Best of Red De er SILVER WINNE R

Councillor

2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

It’s an honour to serve as one of your Councillors. Let’s continue to move forward!! Ken Johnston

PAMPERED PERFECTION - Carli Landsiedel gives a customer a relaxing pedicure at Safari Spa & Salon which won gold for Best Esthetician/Salon and gold for Best Nail Technician/Salon. Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

MANCUSO

Celebrating Over

NING

RY CLEA E T S L O H P U & T E P R CA

D CLEANERS E Y E N R U O J & R E T S MA Best of Red Deer

• All Carpet Cleaning • Tile & Grout Cleaning • Area and Oriental Rugs s • Leather Care • Autos & R.V.s

GOLD WINNER

55 YEARS OF

OUTSTANDING SERVICE With Four Mobile Units To Serve You

• Window Blind Cleaning • Flood Clean-up • Indoor Air Quality • Textile/Consumer Education

Carpet Cleaning 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

www.mancusocleaning.com Alberta Human Ecology and Home Economics Association

FACEBOOK.COM/MANCUSOCLEANING

CLEANING PLANT: #8-7428, 49TH AVE.

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Torch Awards for Ethics

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Red Deer Express 39

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Thanks Red Deerr for Brightening our Day!

Be s BR t of ON Re ZE d D e WI NN er ER

20 Esth Ch 14 R etics oic ea e A de wa rs’ rd s

Hair Services •Spa Services g Manicures • Pedicures • Waxing Relaxing Massage • Tinting

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20 air Ch 14 R Salon oic ea e A de wa rs’ rd s

#2-255 Davison Drive (Deerpark Village) 403.346.8990 Best o f Red D SILVE R WIN eer NER

Daycare

2014 R eader Choice Awards’ s

Thank you Red Deer for your support and thank you to the parents and children in our programs.

OUSTANDING EXCELLENCE - The Southside RV Centre’s staff led them to win silver for Best RV Dealer. Back from left are Jason Finlay, Wayne Dearmond and Jeff Milley. Front from left are Danny Constable, Kelsee Combres, Russ Young and Ryan Sparks. Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Doug Quinn

Coach 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

Mike Moller, Rob Hamill, Doug Quinn, Peter Friestadt, Al Parada, Trent Hunter

“Not-for-Profit Child Care for over 40 years”

“This community has provided myself and my family with a lot of success and a great place to live. I just feel that there’s a responsibility for everybody to give back, whether it’s through volunteering their time or in other ways.”

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Left to Right:

Family Day Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 403-347-7973 Normandeau Day Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 403-346-1305 Woodlea Day Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 403-506-6061 Wichinahin Kohopikiwan Playschool . . . . . . . 403-314-0716 Johnstone Day Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 403-342-1303 School Age Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 403-347-7973

Red Deer Midget AAA Optimist Chiefs

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40 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Thank You Red Deer & Central Alberta! We get to the botto bottom of plumbing problems!

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Plumber 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

ng bing Plum & Heati

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

T hanks Red Deer! er Red De Best of E WINN R SILVER

aner Furnace Cleders’

Because we care about the air you breathe!

a 2014 ReAwards Choice

Serving Red Deer & Central Alberta since 1988

Best of Red De er BRONZ E WINN ER

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ner 2014 R Choice eaders’ Awards

Fratters lands silver BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express A relatively new music venue, which also features an expansive menu, is already making a major splash on the City’s entertainment landscape. Fratters Speakeasy Venue, located at 5114 - 48 St., has landed silver for Best Live Music in this year’s Best of Red Deer. The business was launched late last year, and has quickly been garnering a loyal following of patrons looking for a unique, comfortable setting that combines ﬁne dining with a variety of entertainment, said Naomi Kerchinsky, manager. “The owner, Chris Clark, grew up in the area. He went traveling, did some work in San Diego and was in and out of big cities in the United States and Canada. He later thought that he wanted to do something for his own town and help create more culture back home.” The concept of creating a locally-run venue that ties in with a classic ‘speakeasy’ kind of theme – something he’d seen quite a bit of in New York - was sparked. And originality was key throughout the planning design as well. Staff take pride in the fact it’s completely a locally-created affair. “This is the only Fratters out there.” As Kerchinsky pointed out, in today’s marketplace, typically there are lots of bars with stages but the music is often secondary. But at Fratters, the stage is purposely designed to be central. Fratters provides that engaging kind of a venue – a comfortable, attractive place to enjoy an array of specialty menu items while also taking in a range of musical genres and other types of popular entertainment. “For a night, you can feel like you are somewhere else.” Food-wise, there’s everything from ap-

petizers like Oyster Rockefeller to Waldorf Salad Wraps to delectable main dishes featuring Grilled Ginger Salmon, Stuffed Pepper Meatloaf to St. Louis Ribs and Chicken Parmesan. Kerchinsky said the theme around selecting items for the menu was ‘vintage/ classic/original’. There are dishes that are certainly classic in nature but offer a fresh, exciting new ‘Fratters twist’ as well. “Some old school items spun in a new way,” she adds with a laugh. As to entertainment, blues and jazz acts are of course a mainstay, but there is plenty of room for everything from swing, country, rockabilly and jazz to folk and comedy plus a focus on featuring local bands as well. Well-known artists are consistently featured, as are a crop of emerging talents, too. “It’s a mix. And what we like is to create an environment where you can snuggle up in one of those red booths with some friends, have good conversation and good food.” She added that although the entertainment is central, it isn’t overpowering – folks can carry on a conversation in the midst of a musical performance, for example. Ultimately, Kerchinsky said it’s a joy to come to work everyday where every staff member is excited to be there, and they truly believe in the Fratters mandate. “We want our staff to buy into the experience – we want them to be the face of this company,” she said. “We have an amazing team. “It’s also unique because there really isn’t anywhere else in Red Deer where you can have a ﬁne dining experience and then watch good quality entertainment, and everything is based around our entertainment,” she said. “I think what people like is they can come in, sit down and enjoy a nice meal and then enjoy some good entertainment.” editor@reddeerexpress.com

Red Deer, AB

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www.advanced-cleaning.ca Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

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CREATIVE SPACE - Lead singer for the KlamDaggers Ryan Marchant sings alongside his bandmates as they perform their Beatles tribute show recently at Fratters Speakeasy Venue. Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express Fratters won silver for Best Live Music.

Red Deer Express 41

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

WHEAT Canada brings Denmark style to the ‘great white north’ BY KALISHA MENDONSA Red Deer Express A young Canadian couple has brought the style of Denmark’s WHEAT clothing brand to Canada, advocating playful and stylish children’s clothes. WHEAT Canada, owned by Kat and Aaron Bouchard, was awarded the silver for Best New Business after only a few shorts months of retail. “It’s a lot of hard work to start a business and there’s so many hours that go into it. It’s been great to get all the feedback from the customers in the Red Deer area,” said Kat. “We’ve had some great responses from them, so it was really exciting that they had remembered and picked us for the Best of Red Deer awards. “ On a shopping trip to Brooklyn, New York, the couple found themselves in a boutique that held a small collection of WHEAT clothes. They ﬁgured they would pick up some dresses for their daughter after being wowed by the patterns and quality of the clothes. “We just fell in love. They were beautiful fabrics, and we just fell in love with the line. We hadn’t seen any clothes that were the same quality – these were simple. It’s nice, simple clothing for kids,” said Kat. When Kat and Aaron got back from Brooklyn, they contacted the WHEAT Denmark headquarters and managed to get a hold of the owners. They quickly became integrated into

the company and brought it overseas into Canada in February. “We met Peter and Charlotte (owners/ creators of WHEAT Denmark) when they came to Canada on a ski vacation and fell in love with their vision as well as the design and quality. We just knew we had to have it,” said Aaron. The Denmark owners are the minds behind the clothing concepts. Two collections are produced a year – a spring/summer and a fall/winter line. The clothes are designed for children ages three months to 14 years. The clothing is all designed to be age appropriate, easy to wear and easy to clean. Kat said that she “Loves the way they mix and match,” meaning a few articles could go a long way. The breathable, movementfacilitating clothes make kids comfortable while looking cute. “One of the good things about the line is that just as much love is put into designing the boys’ clothes as the girls’ clothes. I know quite a few moms with little boys who say they can’t ﬁnd great clothes for their boys. I guess they’re just kind of overlooked,” said Kat. WHEAT Canada also sells their clothes online, in trades shows and markets. Without the overhead costs of a storefront, prices are kept competitive and are even cheaper than what the clothes are selling for in Europe and the United States. “I think it’s really important to carry on the story we’ve already started with WHEAT. A family-owned company speciﬁ-

STYLISH - Abby Bouchard, 3, models some of her favourite clothes from the WHEAT Canada line. Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

cally, we’re parents who want great clothes for our kids,” said Aaron. “We see the importance of bringing that to other people, and that’s why we brought it to Canada in the ﬁrst place. We want to share these clothes. We love them and we really believe in the design and concept.” Kat said the goal is to become a house-

hold name in Canada. “We want to be known from the east coast to the west coast, which is already starting – that’s really great. We think this could be a really big brand in Canada because it is such a large line of clothing, and the quality is so good.” kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

We are Thrilled!

Boarding & Grooming

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Thank you Red Deer and Central Alberta for choosing us as a top Boarding Kennel!

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403.347.3967 www.pipercreekpetresort.com Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Health Food Store 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

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 ! We enjoy assisting you, Red Deer and surrounding area, with all of your healthy living, natural & specialty foods, vitamins & supplements concerns and look forward to doing so for many years to come!

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42 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Ronald McDonald House serves 900 families to date Organization wins bronze for Best Charitable Organization this year BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express The Ronald McDonald House won bronze for Best Charitable Organization in this year’s Best of Red Deer. “It’s pretty exciting for us to have been voted. We know to raise the operating funds we need each year we need to be top of mind for people in Red Deer,” said Larry Mathieson, executive director of Ronald McDonald House Central Alberta. “The idea that some of the people who probably voted for us were some of the people that helped us by donating goods or money or giving their time, is pretty exciting to us too. We hope that means people have had a good experience with us in terms of a volunteer or donor experience. Even though some Red Deer families do use the House, in a lot of ways the House is Red Deer’s gift to Central Alberta in a way. “We are very ﬂattered to win this award. And we are happy that people in Red Deer think highly enough of us.” The House began welcoming guests in February 2012. Since then just over 700 families have stayed at the facility, while about 200 families have utilized the facility during the day – these could be families who live in the City and don’t need overnight accommodation, but may need a break from the hospital. The 11-suite, 27,000 sq. ft. House, located at 3908 - 50 Ave., is built to hospital stan-

dards to ensure the wellness of children who are recuperating from illness as well as the family members staying with them. The charge for a family to stay in the House is $12 per night. There is also a room in the House for families who live close by but are spending their days at the hospital with loved ones. Each floor is equipped with washers and dryers as well as a sitting area with a television. There is also a ‘magic room’ where kids can forget about their family’s stresses and play in the secret toy room. A kitchen is the focal point of the main floor, which also showcases a library and sitting area as well as a playroom and a craft room. Twelve million dollars was raised to build the facility. Operating costs are about $1.1 million annually and fundraising is ongoing to raise that money. Before the project started, Mathieson said they approached the Red Deer Regional Hospital because so many families from Central Alberta were staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Calgary. “We knew there was probably a need in Red Deer. When we went through the exercise of doing the feasibility study with the hospital, our board actually committed that if there was enough demand for a five bedroom house then we would build that,” he said. “We were shocked to find that the need was as high and we built an 11-suite house

because we knew that five would not be enough.” Now that it is operating, volunteers are an integral part of the operations. “Before we even built the House we had people and groups stepping up and doing fundraisers for us, so we knew there was a lot of generosity and community investment in Red Deer,” said Mathieson. “When we first started doing the feasibility study and were looking for land – we were a couple of years out from building – but right away we started having people call and ask how to sign up to be a volunteer and start doing fundraisers. “Our first fundraiser in Red Deer was two nine-year-old girls who decided that they were going to sell hot dogs at their school one Friday afternoon for $2. These young girls managed to get on the radio and do some interviews, so their $2 hot dog fundraiser raised over $24,000. We knew when that happened that Red Deer was a generous community.” There are a number of volunteer opportunities including front hosts check in and making sure they are familiar with the House and how it operates, to bakers, to cooking for the Home for Dinner Program as well. In 2013, 145 groups made a meal for the families in the House at one point or another. “That program is growing by the month, so we are very excited about that,” he said. “We do rely very heavily on vol-

unteers. Right now we’re looking for more dinner groups and front hosts. Our events like our bonspiel and our golf tournament also rely on volunteers.” In terms of fundraising, Mathieson said that is vital in keeping the House operational. “That’s one of the reasons this award is so important to us, is because 90 per cent or more of the funds that we need to operate each year have to come from donations from regular people in the community,” he said. “Knowing that we are in the minds of people in Red Deer is important to us.” Officials host two major fundraisers a year - one of which is brand new this year. In January the House hosts its annual Freeze the House Charity Bonspiel. “After expenses, we will probably make about $100,000 from that event.” A new fundraising event this year will be held tomorrow at the Innisfail Golf Course. The first golf tournament sold out and Mathieson said the goal is to turn it into an annual event. Aside from those two events, Mathieson added that in any given year there will also be individuals or groups who come forward who might raise funds by doing bake sales, or a casual dress Friday at an office or raffles as well. “Those events certainly keep us going and keep us visible in the community.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

GIVING BACK - The Fabulous McFoodies prep a meal for the families at the Ronald McDonald House recently. The group is one of many who are a part of the Home for Dinner Program. From left are, Erin Boorman, Lynda Fawcett, Alan Black, Laura Black and Erin Fawcett.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Red Deer Express 43

ROYAL RETIREMENT – Aspen Ridge Symphony Senior Living has received top honours with their gold award for Best Retirement Home in Red Deer. Dorothy Nourse, Bea Whitehead and Grace Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express Rienguette, residents of Aspen Ridge, all agree with the award as they sipped on their orange and root beer ﬂoats on a recent warm day.

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44 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

You’re building the future.

We’re here to help. TM

Laebon Homes named top local builder BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express

it Laebon Homes to discuss a build, there are all sorts of ways the plans can take shape. With a mandate to build top quality, “You can start by looking at one of the personalized homes all across Central Al- many models that we have that are availberta, Laebon Homes has landed gold for able to build – we have a design team that Best Home Builder in this year’s Best of creates new models all the time,” he said. Red Deer. “So you can start with one of those, then The company, which has been in busi- put your red pen to it and change anything ness for 38 years now and was founded by you want.” Gord Bontje, builds homes and commuFrom the comparatively conventional nities across the region from Innisfail to plans to thoroughly personalized designs, Wetaskiwin and Red Deer to Rocky Moun- staff work to ensure each detail a customtain House. Red Deer comer wants is included in munities include those of the final product. “WE CALL OURSELVES A The Timbers, Timberstone The company is COMMUNITY BUILDER.” and Timber Ridge. also building more in “We call ourselves a comthe way of apartment GORD SMITH munity builder,” said Gord buildings and condos, Smith, vice president of said Smith. One is operations for Laebon Homes. “And the wrapping up in the Timberstone area, and Central Alberta community has always he said there are many more in the works. supported us really well. We’ve had repeat Meanwhile, as Smith pointed out, much buyers for many years and Red Deer is also of the company’s success stems from nailjust a great place to do business and build ing the basics of running a solid business in, too.” and staying focused on what matters most Landing gold for ‘Best Builder’ is there- – the customer’s complete satisfaction fore all the more affirming that the com- from the first point of contact through the pany is absolutely on the right track. building process and beyond. “You have to “Awards like this tell you the customers build on that trust.” appreciate everything you do,” said Smith. As to the staff, Smith noted constant “At Laebon, we work hard for our cus- rounds of training programs help to keep tomers – everything we do is geared to- everyone on the industry’s cutting edge. wards what we do for our customers. Their Other company events also serve to keep satisfaction is very important.” camaraderie strong and the employees inThat runs from the earliest sessions of spired to give their best. planning a particular home design right “We have a really great team,” said through to all facets of follow-up and en- Smith. “And we work really hard in our suring things are precisely what the client corporate culture to keep our staff enhad in mind from the start, he said. gaged in what we are doing.” editor@reddeerexpress.com Smith emphasized that when clients vis-

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I would like to thank our loyal customers for their support and also our amazing associates and store leadership team… Dan Gingerich, General Manager, Red Deer #1448

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SUCCESSFUL - Gord Smith, vice president of operations for Laebon Homes, stands outside the company’s headquarters. The company took gold for Best Home Builder in this year’s Best Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express of Red Deer.

Red Deer Express 45

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Newly-elected councillor settling into role Ken Johnston takes the silver award for Best City Councillor this year

NEWCOMER - City Councillor Ken Johnston poses in front of City Hall. He was awarded silver for Best City Councillor.

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express A newly-elected City councillor has been honoured with a silver award in this year’s Best of Red Deer in the Best City Councillor category. Ken Johnston, 60, who was voted onto council last October, said it’s great to be recognized. “It’s an honour and it’s quite humbling, actually,” he said. “It certainly gives me a good feeling that what I said I would do and get engaged in during the campaign, it’s resonating with people.” Johnston retired from his career of 16 years - branch manager sales and service at the Scotiabank – last July. He announced his intention to run for City council earlier that spring. “I’m enjoying it immensely. It has been great,” he said. “Every morning virtually I think it’s a great honour that the community has given me. There’s great joy in that but there’s also great responsibility in that. You’re charged with the affairs of the City and people’s hopes and aspirations for Red Deer. It’s a tremendous privilege.” Some of the highlights for Johnston so far have been the snow and ice policy revision, tackling the challenges of the capital and operating budgets and ambulance dispatch.

“The ambulance dispatch issue was something we really lobbied hard to retain – so that was a real plus.” He added there have also been some challenges in the last number of months. “On a personal note, no question the learning curve has been challenging. When I was first elected people told me it would take a year before I find my feet and I was a little skeptical thinking it wouldn’t take me that long. But absolutely – I am eight months into it or so and I’m feeling more comfortable but there is still an immense amount of policy and governance. It’s a broad world,” he said. “I think one of the key things to learn when you are first elected is how City Hall works and how things get done and the channels everything has to go through.” Johnston said he has enjoyed learning from the other councillors as well. “The veteran councillors give me a longer-term perspective on how the City is moving and why it is moving in a particular direction,” he said. “Lawrence (Lee), myself and Tanya (Handley) were all welcomed as equals immediately. There was a tremendous amount of respect there and there was a sense of anticipation as to what the newcomers would bring. They have been really terrific. They have spent time with all three of us integrating us into the group.

“We have a good council. There is a lot of strength in that council. There’s a lot of common purpose there.” As for Mayor Tara Veer, Johnston said he has learned much from her already. “I can’t speak highly enough of Tara to be able to form that cohesiveness around us. She has been absolutely fantastic,” he said. “In my 40 years in the bank – and I saw a lot of good executives and a lot of good corporate heads – she possesses one of the sharpest minds I have ever encountered. She likes to have fun and all those things which are great, but when it comes down to business and especially issues and being able to dissect them – she is incredibly talented. “Red Deer made a terriﬁc choice.” One of the aspects Johnston has been enjoying since being elected has been the community engagement. “People bring out a lot of different perspectives and there is always that delicate balance between ﬁscal stewardship and a sense of bringing value for money. There’s also the reality of growing 3,000 citizens a year plus the demands of a younger City – our average age is 32 and families want their city to be an active city, to have recreational choices, educational choices and environmental choices,” he said. “Typically when people interact with you, they understand the costs are what

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

they are and facilities are needed to handle growth and attraction. There is a great deal of ‘please do the best you can’. People are not unreasonable, they just expect you to do the best you can.” Looking ahead, Johnston said the challenges will always be balancing the growth in population and the services people want. “In terms of basic service people want a superior police service, they want a superior emergency response service and they want a superior transit system and people want parks and recreation,” he said. “Then Red Deer is becoming what I would call a sports area of choice. It is evolving into that. Our location gives us that, so when we start investigating in projects like the winter games, we’re really not only fulﬁlling our own location demand, but the area demand and the provincial demand. Those are the challenges. And how do you make that happen on $350 million a year?” Ultimately, Johnston has enjoyed his time on council so far and said he looks forward to serving the community for the next three-plus years. “I enjoy going out and attending meetings and some gatherings and a lunch here and there. I try to be as visible as I can. “My wife is getting her wish, because when I retired she said I can retire but I can’t come home,” he laughed. efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

46 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

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Red Deer Express 47

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Bob Bevins’ big heart earns awards BY KALISHA MENDONSA Red Deer Express Bob Bevins, owner of Bulldog Scrap Metals Ltd. is anything but a bulldog. Bevins was awarded silver for Best Corporate Citizen and gold for Best Volunteer. “I don’t even know how this happened. When you volunteer, you quietly volunteer. I don’t know who voted, or how they voted or why they voted, but it’s nice to be recognized,” Bevins said when he learned of the awards. He said that he feels he should help who he can. Bevins arrived in Red Deer with nothing but a dufﬂe bag, and through hard work and opportunity, got himself on his feet with a booming business and a family. He said his other philosophy is “If you don’t want to lose it, give it away,” and so he tries to give whenever he can. “I’ve always said when I had the ability to help and give back, I would, and I look for opportunities to do that. Sometimes, it’s volunteering, sometimes it’s other things,” he said. “What drives me is that I came from a poor family, and had some real struggles. After I got through those major issues, I realized what was keeping me focused and energized was giving back.” Bevins is an active volunteer with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He and his wife have helped further an addiction recovery program for people with either behavioural or substance abuse issues. The church had already established a program that was modelled after a 12-step program, but with spiritual overtones.

Bevins and his wife were, however, the initiators of the program in the Red Deer church facility. “Sometimes people try to take advantage of you, and those are not the people I’m looking for. The people I’m looking for are the honest of heart, if you will, who’ve had some tough times and need some help. I’m just a guy who looks for opportunities - I don’t wait for them to come to me.” Bevins added that if someone is sincere and honest, he tries to help however he can. “I’m working with a woman right now who’s a widow, and I’ve been working with her for four or five years. “I help fix appliances and things like that. All she has is her house, and if everything starts breaking, she has nothing. She should at least be able to enjoy her house while she’s here.” In addition to church and volunteering initiatives, Bevins also aims to serve the community through his business. An example of this is Bevins allows emergency services, specifically fire fighters, to practice and examine accident scenarios by providing them with vehicles to work on. He does not charge for the use of his cars. He simply believes it is the right thing to do. “I see a wealth of opportunity to anyone who wants to work hard here. Red Deer and Alberta have given me the opportunities to help myself and help others. Obviously, you’ve got to have the initiative to work hard, and take some risks sometimes, but the benefits are there. This is a wonderful place to live and to have a business.” kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

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48 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Play it Again Sports keeping people on their game BY KALISHA MENDONSA Red Deer Express At Play It Again Sports, it’s all about the community. Owner Chris FlamanHaley opened the facility when he noticed a need in Red Deer for accessibility of sporting goods. He and his family were raised in Central Alberta and were loyal patrons to a business called Allsports Replay and when it left, Flaman-Haley stepped up. “When Allsports Replay left at the end of 2008, we recognized that there was a void left in Central Alberta for many athletes who would not otherwise be able to participate in sports,” said Flaman-Haley. He stepped up to fulﬁl the community need for a sporting goods store that offered new and used equipment, and Play It Again Sports came to Red Deer. Flaman-Haley’s store has been honoured with a bronze award for Best Sporting Goods store. “It’s always nice to be recognized as being a local business that contributes to the community.”

With 18 major sporting goods categories, Play It Again Sports carries equipment for baseball and softball, lacrosse, hockey, snow sports, golf, football, soccer, water sports and ﬁtness training among other categories. They also will buy good quality used items for cash or credit towards a new purchase. “This business is about the people who want the opportunity to participate in variety of different sports, at an affordable price,” he said. “We offer quality used products and new products as well, for those who choose to go that direction.” This year, the organization is entering its ﬁfth year of operation in Red Deer, and they have added something new for the customers to enjoy – a batting cage. “We’re really excited about the new batting cage. We offer it for a couple of reasons – recreational use and skill development for athletes in the baseball and softball categories.” Flaman-Haley, being a man of opportunity, decided to utilize the open

space adjacent to the store and install a batting cage. He said the response from customers has been great,

and that the cage has a lot of interest. “It was time to take advantage of that space and

do something that would be appreciated by the community,” he said. “We’re not everything to everybody,

but we are a lot of things to a lot of people and that’s good to know.” kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

SUPERB SPORTING – Nick Flaman-Haley, manager of Play It Again Sports, takes a try at their new state-of-the-art batting Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express cages which are open to the public. Play It Again Sports took bronze for Best Sporting Goods Store.

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Red Deer Express 49

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

MUSICAL MASH – The Vat is a great venue to hear live music such as Leave The Living, a local metal band. A wide genre of live performances led The Vat to win gold in Best Live Music. They also won bronze for Best Place to Shoot Pool.

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50 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

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Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

Brooks takes two awards in this year’s Best of Red Deer BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express A gifted and talented performer in her own right, Red Deer’s Natalie Brooks has landed silver for Best Coach and for Best Dance Studio in this year’s Best of Red Deer. “It’s an honour to be included,” she said of the recognition. “I’m really thankful for the students, and we are just growing and getting bigger all the time. Right now, we are focused on expanding our studio and our client base and trying to add new and different classes and just keeping out students happy.” As to Best Dance Studio, Brooks owns and manages Chair Tease Dance Studio. The studio ﬁrst opened its doors in the fall of 2008. It offers a thoroughly unique

and fun means of getting and staying in top condition through burlesque-inspired dance and a number of ﬁtness classes as well. It also offers women ages 18 and up the opportunity to dance and exercise and have a super time together in a relaxed, comfortable environment. Brooks’ expertise as an award-winning dancer clearly has inﬂuenced the level of success that the studio has seen over the years. And with the addition of the incredibly popular Zumba classes just a few years back, the growth has in particular been amazing. Some classes are also structured in a convenient drop-in format, and that includes the Zumba classes. Sessions typically follow a similar format – within one hour participants do about 16 songs

straight through. It combines all Latin styles of dancing including cha-cha, salsa and merengue. “I teach Zumba pretty much 30 times a week,” she said with a laugh. Zumba has also been a way to welcome guys into the studio as well. About 300 students take in a Zumba session every week, and Brooks also teaches seniors’ Zumba classes at both the Collicutt Centre and the Golden Circle every week as well. As for Brooks, who was born and raised in Red Deer, she did take dance classes early on but was primarily a gymnast for about 10 years. “Then I did the typical kids’ classes for several years,” she recalls of her early dance explorations. “I later moved to Calgary I met some ballroom dancers, and then it was when I moved back to Red Deer that I really started dancing.” Lessons followed including numerous treks back and forth to Calgary. “That’s how I got involved with couple’s dancing.” She had really found her strength by this point – landing several top titles along the way. But she was also balancing the demands of a ﬂourishing dance career with a day job, and it was getting tiring. Ideas of opening her own studio, and the dream of being her own boss, began to take shape. Eventually, she was able to focus on the studio full-time and it’s been a source of joy and pride ever since. Chair Tease Dance Studio offers about 20 different classes, and the age range is from 18 to 60-plus. Various body weights, sizes and shapes need not be an obstacle to

taking part either. From the start, women have been attracted to Chair Tease Dance Studio because of its unique and overtly fun nature, said Brooks. She goes out of her way to make people feel comfortable as well. Part of that comes from understanding what it’s like to be new to the world of dance. “When I joined dance I was older, and I wasn’t as experienced as the rest of the girls I was taking classes with. So I know what it’s like to not be the best,” she explained. Of course, she also knows what it is to be an acclaimed, award-winning performer. But she hasn’t forgotten what those initial insecurities can feel like. “When I was teaching couple’s dancing, it would be 30 women and five men.” Brooks realized that there needed to be a place for women to hone their dance skills in a comfortable, welcoming setting. “What’s great about what I do is that there is always going to be a group of women who really want to dance, but don’t really know where to go.” Chair Tease Dance Studio has helped to change that, she said, noting that it’s wonderful to see women who tentatively join classes grow in confidence and reach their fitness and weight-loss goals as well. There really couldn’t be a more enjoyable and fulfilling line of work, she said. “It mixes dance and fitness which is just right up my alley,” she said. “I’m just blessed to be able to do what I do for a living.” editor@reddeerexpress.com

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Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

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Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

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54 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

One of the City’s favourite events honoured BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express A popular festive event that kicks of the Christmas season each and every year in the City has won an award in this year’s Best of Red Deer. The Festival of Trees took the bronze in the Best Indoor/Outdoor Festival category. “We’re very honoured. We have a really satisfying job here in the Foundation in what we do because we do believe we do make a difference in people’s lives and so to be recognized is very honouring,” said Alaine Martin, project ofﬁcer for the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation. Eileen Cole started the ﬁrst Festival in 1994 on a zero budget. “The Festival was all in one room and they raised $28,509 and of course they were thrilled with that,” said Martin. “It was pretty incredible that the volunteers who came together that year and the work that they did, they put on a pretty good show for what they had.” Since its beginnings, The

Festival of Trees has raised more than $10.7 million to date for the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre. Festival of Trees is a weeklong event at the end of November and boasts more than 10 special events, a tree room with decorated Christmas trees on display for auction, rafﬂe alley, silent auction items, gift shop, sweet shop and of course, Candy Cane Lane and Santa’s Secret Shoppe for the children. “We encourage people to come and enjoy the Festival and soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the incredible trees that we have – just take it all in,” said Martin. This year’s events begin on Nov. 22nd with the Festival Lights the Night in downtown Red Deer. The Festival of Trees will run Nov. 26-30th, with public hours beginning Nov. 28th and running to the 30th. Last year, the Festival of Trees celebrated its 20th anniversary and a number of records were broken in terms of funds raised and attendance as well. More than $1.28 mil-

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lion was raised during last year’s event, the highest amount raised in the event’s history. As well, 24,300 guests walked through the doors, 2,600 volunteers helped out during the event, 554 donors gave back to the cause and 1,500 volunteer entertainers came together to help make last year’s Festival Trees a success, ofﬁcials said. “The way Red Deer comes together for such a great cause is amazing. The cause is so outreaching – everyone is in some way impacted with services that the hospital provides whether themselves personally or their family,” said Martin. “I think when you have that underlying cause that we all need, it makes it that much easier for people to come together.” Proceeds raised from the 2013 Festival of Trees went towards upgrading equipment and technology for Diagnostic Imaging, Urology and the operating room. Diagnostic Imaging and Urology is working in collaboration to purchase and

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FESTIVAL FUN - One of the many tree decorating coordinators, Trudy Watt puts the ﬁnishing Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express touches on a tree during a set up for the Festival of Trees last year. install a new imaging unit in the operating room in Red Deer Regional Hospital. The urology imaging equipment will assist the urologist with visualization of the urinary tracts of males and females and the reproductive system of males. When not in use for imaging, the equipment will be used for prostate surgeries, stent insertions and/or any procedure that requires access to the bladder in a surgical environment. “How we determine what the money will go to each year is that we work with

Alberta Health Services directly on and we identify areas of need and then they work with the Foundation board and our Festival board – it’s quite a partnership – to determine what the best ﬁt for us that year is,” said Martin. “It’s really hard because all causes are good, but we determine where we can put the money and what our projected income would be and we go from there.” Meanwhile, organizing and executing the Festival of Trees is no small feat either. There are about 22 core

committees with 300 volunteers serving on those particular committees. There are also more than 2,500 volunteers that it takes to put on the Festival. “It takes so many people to put on what we have,” said Martin. “Our goal is just to make the Festival experience better each year for all of those involved whether they come as a guest, the volunteers and the donors as well as the staff that work so hard to put it on. We want to make it a magical, great experience that all can enjoy.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

Red Deer Express 55

Wednesday, June 25, 2014, Best of Red Deer 2014

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56 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2014, Wednesday, June 25, 2014

RV DEALER

NOW OPEN SUNDAYS 11am-4pm 65 Burnt Park Drive Hwy 2 North Red Deer, AB 403.356.9399