Special Features - Best of Red Deer 2015

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OUTDOOR FUN – Westerner Days took bronze in the Best Indoor/Outdoor Festival category in this year’s Best of Red Deer. The annual fair runs July 15th-19th.

Express file photo

2 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

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Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

Local radio personality loves community feel of City BIG 105’s Bec Dent has been awarded silver for Best Radio DJ in Red Deer

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express

A

n Australian-born DJ is happy to call Red Deer home as she enjoys her career in radio.

Bec Dent of BIG 105’s BIG Breakfast Show was awarded silver for Best Radio DJ in Red Deer. Jamie Worthington, Dent’s co-host was awarded gold in the same category.

“I am happy to be the silver to Jamie’s gold because I think so highly of him,” said Dent, 32. “I’m the Robin to his Batman and I am so happy about that. It is a massive honour. I’m very lucky.”

Dent, who was born in Australia, but whose mother was born and raised in Rimbey, moved to the City a year and a half ago.

“I was studying teaching and I was working three jobs and studying and nothing was really fitting. I made the choice to sporadically go to the Big Brother auditions in Australia and I got the call months later that I was going to be a housemate. The show was in its seventh season and I had never really watched it, so I didn’t really know what I was getting myself into,” she said with a laugh. “I had never had a fight with anybody in my entire life – I’m all peace, love and mung beans. It was a good experience but it was very exposing.”

After leaving the Big Brother house in 2007, Dent said she was thrown into the spotlight and instant stardom.

“We did all the media meet and greets and I couldn’t even go to the grocery store without people coming up to me. I was grateful but it was a very different lifestyle,” she said.

“I was invited to a radio station close to my hometown in Brisbane to co-host a show because the regular hosts were away – they were on vacation. I co-hosted the show for one night and they liked me so much they wanted me to come back and stay for the whole two weeks. I started doing it and I fell in love with it.”

At that point, her career in radio was born.

“I got a full-time gig out of that and it was a bit of a leg up because most people go to radio school. I got sent to a very small market and I started at the bottom and I was happy to do it. I learned the ropes on the job and I was very fortunate to have a lot of people help me out,” she said. “It’s surprising I never thought about getting into radio growing up considering how much trouble I got in for talking in class.

I honestly can’t tell you how many times I got kicked out of class for talking too much. I seriously had a word quota and if I used up my word quota I had to leave the room. Well, I guess I showed my teachers now I’ve got a career doing the thing I’m best at - talking.”

In her time in Australia Dent also hosted her own television show and worked in big markets in radio as well.

“One of the questions people always ask me is why Red Deer? It is the smallest city I have ever worked in and I don’t mean that in a bad way. I love being part of the community and I’ve found that you have a chance to really get to know your audience and get to know your community in the regional markets. My favourite thing is having that interaction and you lose that the bigger market gets.”

HONOUR - Bec Dent, co-host of the BIG 105’s BIG Breakfast Show, landed silver for Best Radio DJ in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Dent said her biggest draw to Red Deer was Worthington who she has known for 15 years.

“We met in Calgary. My mom moved from Rimbey to Red Deer and went to high school at Lindsay Thurber and then she moved in her early 20s to Australia and met my dad and then we came along.

That’s how I happened to be the Australian in Canada,” she said. “Whenever I came to visit I would always come to Red Deer and stay with my grandma so it was like a second home.

“I came to Calgary and stayed for about a year and a half and I met Jamie. We be-

came best friends. It has been that friendship that it doesn’t matter that we’re across the world, he’s been that constant.”

In 2013, Dent and her fiancé decided it was time for something different. At the same time, the job posting for Worthington’s co-host came up.

“The day I looked online for jobs in Canada the position for Jamie’s co-host became available.”

It was meant to be and Dent began work at BIG 105 in January of 2014.

“I am so lucky to work for the station and with such a great team - on and off air.

It really is such an awesome and support-

ive place to work. I know Jamie and I feel lucky that they trust us enough to ‘do our thing.’ It works because it is so natural. Of all the things I have done, this is my favourite.”

Dent said one of the best parts about her job is connecting with listeners.

“They are at the heart of what we do.

They give so much to us daily and if we can give even a little bit of that back everyday - we’ve done our job. We just want to make you smile. Thank you for choosing us. It’s a mutual appreciation society - we love you right back!” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

4 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

2015 Readers’ Choice Award

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Assistant Manager Jessica Polsfut shows off some fine jewellery showcased in the store.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Congratulations

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Red Deer Express 5

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

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6 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Offering personalized service at Bridal Couture Dezigns

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express Offering superior personalized service as well as friendly staff and options for any budget has landed one bridal store top honours in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

Bridal Couture Dezigns received silver in the year’s competition for Best Bridal Wear and bronze for Best Customer Service/Friendliest Staff.

“I’m definitely honoured. We strive to do the best that we can and for us it shows that we are living up to the standard that we want,” said Iska Hollman, owner of Bridal Couture Dezigns.

“We try to be a full service wedding store. We of course have the wedding gowns, but we also try and fit everyone in your wedding party. We have tuxedo rentals, bridesmaid dresses, flower girl dresses as well as dresses for mothers of the brides,” said Hollman. “We also have our grad side which is absolutely huge for us. We do our grad show in November and last year we blew it out of the water.”

Bridal Couture Dezigns has been in Red Deer for 12 years – five of which Hollman has been owner.

“I love the people and seeing everyone’s excitement. When they come into the store it is for such happy occasions in their lives and we just love that we get to be a part of that,” said Hollman.

“I also love the problem-solving aspect as well. We have brides that come in and they know exactly what they want and

we help them try and achieve that.”

The bridal store carries a wide variety of wedding gowns and can meet any customer’s budget.

“We can work with any budget from $300 and higher.”

When a bride comes into the store they can expect to be greeted at the door.

“We then bring them in and we go through an interview process. We ask them what they are looking for, what they have tried on and what they would like to try. We also ask them about their wedding. We want to make sure that the dress they are looking for matches their wedding,” said Hollman. “We then pick the dresses for the girls. We know what we have here and it’s a lot easier for us to pick what will look best on each body type. And then once we order their dress, we keep in touch with them and we move forward until the dress comes in. We have the brides meet with our seamstress and we see them through until their wedding day.

“We have our alterations services here so we really get to see brides from the very beginning – girls getting engaged right up to days until their wedding. The whole process and knowing we are here for them really makes me happy and hearing their stories and just being part of their wedding, their happy day.

“We want our customers to know we are there with them every step of the way.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

ELEGANCE - Iska Hollman, owner of Bridal Couture Dezigns, adjusts a beautiful wedding gown on display at the store.

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Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

C.A.R.E. lands bronze for Best Charitable Organization

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express

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Thanks from Best of Red Deer Be the Tangelo GOLD WINNER G Team: Shauna, Maria, Kristy, Shyla & Kaely!

are struggling with the English,” he said.

There is also a strong social connection For those new to Canada and Red Deer to this program. in particular, there is no better source of “Going to school, learning English and support than the Central Alberta Refugee getting a job is one thing, but making Home of the Effort (C.A.R.E.) friends is really important, too.

Hair Salon The organization, which was formed in “It can be really lonely if it’s just you 2015 Readers’ 1979 by a group of concerned citizens who and your family – especially when you are Choice Awards C wanted to help with the settlement of Indo- forced to leave your home country,” he Chinese refugees fleeing the aftermath of said. the Vietnam War, has landed bronze in the “Making friends and knowing more Best Charitable Organization category of about what’s going on in Red Deer is so imthis year’s Best of Red Deer. portant. That’s where more social-type of In 1980, C.A.R.E. became a registered activities can come in.” non-profit society and the first C.A.R.E. The program can match volunteers with office opened in May of that year. In early newcomers on a one-to-one basis who then Available to new clients & one family member per household.

1982 it landed status as a charitable orga- meet on a regular basis for three to four nization. months.

4905 54 Street • 403.343.0236 Today, C.A.R.E. has about 40 employees “Many of them stay friends afterwards,” be awesome and is a thriving hub offering all kinds of he said. Families can also be connected to programs, services and supports for those volunteers as well. “It’s about helping peonew to Central Alberta. ple also to learn more about Red Deer, and “I’m very proud, and it emphasizes that to also mingle with some non-immigrants, we are an established, community-serving too.” organization,” said Frank Bauer, execuThe Immigrant Youth Program is simitive director, adding that sometimes, the lar in that staff and volunteers help youth details of helping immigrants settle in a new to the country settle into new school community aren’t necessarily well-known. routines. But it’s also about building a so“So that fact that it’s recognized – that’s cial structure for them as well. important because there are so many imThe teen years can be tough enough as migrants in Red Deer,” it is – adding the preshe said, adding that sures of fitting into a ‘I’M VERY PROUD, AND IT there are up to 1,000 imbrand new culture can migrants settling in the EMPHASIZES THAT WE ARE AN really require some asESTABLISHED, COMMUNITY- sistance along the way. region every year. He and his family are im“It’s a very important SERVING ORGANIZATION.’ migrants themselves, program.” having moved to Canada Bauer added that FRANK BAUER from the Netherlands C.A.R.E. in general cerabout six years ago. tainly relies on the support of a solid base Best of Red Deer Riverlands Gate Business Centre That gives Bauer a special ability to of volunteers. This is also where public BRONZE WINNER empathize with those adjusting to a new awareness programs come in – educating Suite #202, 4327 - 54th Avenue life and a whole new culture. C.A.R.E.’s local communities in general about multi(intersection of Taylor Drive and 45 th Street) mandate is, “To support the efforts of im- culturalism and the misconceptions that migrants and refugees to overcome barri- some hold about immigrants. Another exers and participate fully in Canadian life ample is employer engagement, which is as valued members of the Central Alberta about creating a culturally inclusive workTOLL FREE: 1-877-824-3939 Hearing Solutions community by providing coordinated ser- place.

2015 Readers’ vices and by encouraging a welcoming en“It’s such a beautiful way to learn a bit 13-02374.indd 1 29/08/13 12:18 PM PM Choice Awards 13-02374.indd 1 29/08/13 12:18 vironment.” more about the world and get to know peoTo that end, they provide a wide range ple from other parts of the world,” he said. of programs and services to folks settling “There are so many rich cultures. You can 13-02374.indd 1 29/08/13 12:18 PM in Central Alberta from English as a Sec- also help newcomers feel at home.” ond Language (ESL) classes and translaWithin the pool of volunteers, about 30 tion and interpretation services to an im- different languages are represented. Baumigrant youth program and immigrant er also noted there are about 60 different er men’s and women’s support groups. nationalities within Red Deer these days as d De of Re NNER “ESL is probably our base service,” said well.

I Best ZE W Bauer, adding the program is suitable for “Volunteering is also great way for imBRON those with minimal education in their migrants to build their own resumes and U - STORE IT own languages all the way up to those who make friends.” are nearly ready to begin post-secondary Meanwhile, it’s a special year at C.A.R.E. U - LOCK IT education. There are daytime and evening this year as the organization is marking its U - KEEP THE KEY classes as well.

35th anniversary. Part of celebrating that “We have about 140 students every achievement was held this past April with y Compan term.” the very successful Around the World with •Residential •Commercial StorageReaders’s Ultimately, it’s about helping people feel CARE fundraiser.

2015 e Award c i o h C comfortable with the new aspects they And there is continued growth with onmay find they have to deal with across going renovations – expanding teaching North American culture. and office spaces in their ideal downtown Another popular program is the Con- location. necting Newcomers program which builds For Bauer, it’s a wonderfully fulfilling community connections between newcom- line of work to be in. ers and established Canadians.

“I have a meaningful job,” he says with Part of the Real Storage Group “People might need help with things a smile. It all started with volunteering, like housing, applying for Canadian citi- and Bauer has found it’s right where he North 4904 79 St South 88 Petrolia Drive zenship – or all kinds or practical things belongs.

403.342.5292 403.342.4110 including the translation of documents, or “It’s so rewarding.” editor@reddeerexpress.com they might need to see the doctor and they

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Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

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Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

Comfort and community at Redwoods Retirement Residence Red Deer facility receives gold in the Best Retirement Home category

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express Those looking for a retirement home rich in community spirit should check out the Redwoods Retirement Residence which landed gold in the Best Retirement Home category in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

“I think the really big difference between us and other places is that we are completely independent living,” said Lynda Ellis, general manager. “What that means is that it’s kind of nice to have some housekeeping, and meals provided as part of your rent and also to have the emergency system 24-hours a day there on call for you.”

Amenities also include large private suites, weekly housekeeping and flat laundry service, breakfast, lunch and dinner served in the dining room, regular exercise and fitness classes, an on-site beauty salon/aesthetics and barber shop, a home theatre with a big screen TV, a fireside lounge, a games room and library, a private bus service, daily activities led by a recreation coordinator and on-site faith services.

“As mentioned, the meals are part of the rent and the food is fabulous.”

Ellis said Redwoods also has a full-time lifestyles coordinator who sets up the activities and games – there are usually four or five events happening throughout the day. “In a month we will probably have about three dance groups coming through; we also have a full theatre room that’s hooked up to Netflix. It’s not uncommon for a resident to come down and request a film, and we’ll find it for them. All of those things are included in the rent as well.”

Redwoods features one-bedroom and bachelor suites, all warmly decorated.

“Residents are really happy – it’s unusual that we have someone move out other then for the reason that they may need additional care,” she said. “Generally speaking, the average person who comes and looks at the suites loves them right away. It quickly becomes a family here – residents are very close. They enjoy spending time together.”

The bistro on the main level is like a gathering place as well complete with homemade good-

ies to enjoy. “It’s like our little coffee shop. We do a lot hanging out there – watching the news in the morning, reading the paper, having coffee,” she said. “Mostly, our biggest advertisement that we have is word of mouth – that’s really been our biggest advocate because people are happy here.

“I also really like that it’s not on a main drag – we aren’t on a busy street. And we are really close to a park, so it’s not uncommon in the summertime to go for little walks. Also, this being a residential area is nice as well.”

Ellis also explained how important it is for families to feel included in the day-to-day routines at Redwoods. “When I take someone on a tour, or I’m showing them what the facility is all about, one of the big things I try to get across is that this isn’t just for grandma. This is about family – I want people to feel totally comfortable to come down and play darts in the games room, come down and watch a movie, hang out in the library area. And even with activities – if there’s a singing group coming in that you would like to see, come on in. You are family.”

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10 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

New yoga studio offers community atmosphere

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express A newly-opened yoga studio in Red Deer prides itself on offering a welcoming, community atmosphere.

YogaNation, which opened in Red Deer last October, received bronze for Best Yoga Studio in the City.

“Our main goal was to bring the community together through yoga. We want to be a studio where people can go and feel welcome and feel a connection,” said Justina Waschuk, co-owner of YogaNation. “We have noticed already that people are connecting and laughing together and they met each other through yoga.

“We feel ecstatic to receive the award and it’s really nice to hear that we are doing something good. We are having an impact on people in a positive way.”

Dawn Burvill, co-owner of YogaNation, added being part of the community is extremely important as well.

“We work a lot with schools and with athletes and sports teams. We always knew we wanted to be bigger than a yoga studio,” she said. “We want people to feel that connection and feel like they belong somewhere. Our vision was to be part of something

SOUL SISTERS - From left, Dawn Burvill and Justina Waschuk, co-owners of the newly opened YogaNation, are excited to be a part of the Red Deer community. bigger – something bigger than ourselves.”

YogaNation offers 30 classes a week ranging from power yoga to Hatha, Yin classes and more.

“Our classes are designed for people who are new to yoga. The level of our classes go from those who have never done yoga to very seasoned yogis,” said Burvill, adding modifications are given

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

in classes for both new yogis and long-time yogis.

YogaNation also offers heated and non-heated classes with their state-of-the-art thermo ray, infrared heating system.

“They are heated ceiling tiles so the heat is very even and very healing,” said Burvill. “And there is no humidity so it is very therapeutic.”

Best of Red De er BRONZ E WINN ER

YogaNation offers a relaxing and inviting atmosphere with full change rooms for both men and women and a large yoga studio that offers plenty of natural light.

Burvill was introduced to yoga in 2010. “I was working out at the gym and I had done some fitness competitions and I was running some half marathons. The owner

of my gym suggested that I start doing some yoga to help with my hamstrings and muscle tightness.”

Burvill took a class in Red Deer where Waschuk was an instructor. “I just fell in love with it. I love everything about it. I love the connection and the community.”

Waschuk began practicing yoga in 2010 in Calgary. “I first started doing hot yoga and it was an instant connection. I was a gymnast for 12 years and I played a lot of sports. After high school I didn’t have that connection to sports anymore so yoga brought me back into that place and brought a sense of connection to myself -bringing me back to a healthier mind and healthier body.”

In 2012 Waschuk went to a teacher training in the U.S. and she taught around the area for a couple years before opening YogaNation.

Ultimately, Waschuk and Burvill have enjoyed being in Red Deer and connecting with their students and the community.

“We have people come in here and they have said they feel like they are a part of something. It’s a great feeling and that is what we strive for,” said Waschuk. efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

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Red Deer Express 11

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

Local realtor finds his niche in Red Deer market

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express A longtime realtor has enjoyed all that the Red Deer market has to offer.

Richard Pochylko has been named the Best Realtor in the City in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

“I’m really flattered and really proud of this. This is the thing that the Express has been doing for a long time and it’s not something I prospected to get – it’s just something that I’ve been honoured with, and it really is an honour. It’s something that I take very seriously and something that I’ve worked towards without working towards it.”

Sixteen and a half years ago Pochylko had to make some life changes due to health issues and his wife suggested he try a career in real estate. From the get go, it was a great fit, he said.

Pochylko specializes in selling residential properties in Red Deer but also has experience with selling acreages and other properties in outlying towns in Central Alberta.

“I like the size of the City and from a business perspective, there is enough volume of business here that you can do very well in Red Deer. But it’s also small enough that when you do work with people, especially those from out of town, you don’t have to work with them for days and days and days to cover the entire City. You can cover the City in a couple of days, so it’s fairly fast that way,” he said.

“Red Deer is just a great City to live in with great park systems and sports facilities. I’m really proud of Red Deer from that perspective.”

Pochylko said many think being a realtor is a relatively easy job, however it is not. The hours can be long and you have to build a reputation in the community.

“From my perspective, one of the first things you have to overcome is the stigma of realtors and basically sales people in general. Some people have had bad experiences, or they have heard of others who have had bad experiences or they just don’t understand the entire process. I find the hardest thing to overcome is that re-

VOTED BEST - Richard Pochylko received top honours in this year’s Best of Red Deer. sistance. Once you do that and explain to them the process, it makes their decision process so much easier,” he said. “As I have developed, that is what I have learned to focus on – taking the fear out of decisions for people and giving them the options that they have and making sure they are fully aware of everything they are about to do.”

Pochylko said the market in Central Alberta this year has been different than in years past.

“We’re very susceptible to the price of oil and to a certain extent, to the price of natural gas. We are a very service-based

Thanks Red Deer for your support!

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

City - if prices are good, then people are spending money. If prices are not good, then we don’t see people spending money,” he said.

“This year is different. We have had a very buoyant market below $360,000. It seems like there is less fear from first-time homebuyers or people moving from a duplex to their first single-family home. They are willing to make that move and they are not really worried about what will happen in the future.

“From $360,000 and up it gets to be a little bit more difficult to sell houses and

at certain price ranges there is a little bit of a glut of homes available but generally speaking the foundation of the market is based on first-time homebuyers and we have a very strong foundation this year.”

He said that foundation will help carry a strong market into the years to come.

“We are having a slower year overall, but we are building for a better market next year and even the year after. Yes, oil prices have a lot to do with it but this will only last for a period of time and then it will take off and Red Deer will be set again.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

Celebrating 6 Years in Central Alberta

Best of Red De er GOLD WINNER

@famfirstchiro Plumbing Shop

2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

Thanks AGAIN Red Deer for Voting For Us! Special Acknowledgement to our

SUPERB, FRIENDLY STAFF! Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

And thanks to our amazing team!

We couldn’t do it without you!

Proud to be part of our community for 50 years!

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Best Chiropractor 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

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Dr. Joelle Johnson, D.C. Dr. Stephen Kelly, D.C. Dr. Elton Clemence, D.C.

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12 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Thank-you Red Deer for all your support and business!

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Chiropractic Clinic Dr. Teresa Splettstoeszer

2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

Dr. Glenn Chidlow

We direct bill to most insurance companies

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SUMMER RIDE – Cheryl Tanner, parts manager, tries out one of the many Harleys available at Gasoline Alley Harley Davidson. The business won gold for Best Motorcycle/Powersports in this Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express year’s Best of Red Deer.

since 1962

THANK YOU RED DEER FOR DECORATING

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Red Deer Express 13

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

Wow!

Best o f Red D ee GOLD WINNE r R

A big Thank You Red Deer!

Coach

2015 R Choice eaders’ Award s

4810 - 52nd Street, Red Deer

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Thanks Red Deer!

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

THE VAT

COLOURFUL EXPRESSION - La Petite Jaune Fleur was awarded bronze for Best Floral Shop.

Owner Laura Cadrin along with her husband David and staff member Sonja Hoefman showcase Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express the many options available at the store.

- we

love the vat

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Live Music

Places to Shoot Pool

2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

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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!

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14 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

RECOGNITION - Former City Mayor Morris Flewwelling poses with his ‘grand-dog’ Molly in the backyard of his Red Deer home.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Morris Flewwelling enjoying all that retirement offers

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express

F

ormer Mayor Morris Flewwelling has relished all that retirement has offered since serving the City as a councillor and then mayor for 20 years.

Flewwelling was awarded bronze for Most Beloved Red Deerian in this year’s Best of Red Deer. “It’s very encouraging and it’s very nice that they remember after two years who I was,” laughed Flewwelling.

Flewwelling served his first term on council from 1974 – 1978 and then ran again in 1995 where he was re-elected. He served as a councillor before being elected as the City’s mayor in 2004. Flewwelling served as mayor until 2013.

“When you’re the mayor, you set aside almost everything in your private life. I had put things in boxes and said later – well later was now,” said Flewwelling. “We went through all of the boxes systematically.

“We filed and sorted and donated. It was great to go through the years of boxes that had piled up.”

Flewwelling also sorted through tshirts, balloons, other promotional materials, lists of sign locations and supporters, among other things, that had accumulated from seven election campaigns. “I needed all of that stuff when I was active, but I had no need for it now.”

Shortly following the municipal election in 2013, Flewwelling and his wife Hazel visited Vietnam and Cambodia and they also went on a Mediterranean cruise from Greece to Turkey and up to Barcelona.

Morris has also has time to spend these days on his ranch just outside of the City.

“Before I was only able to do those jobs that absolutely had to be done or there was trouble. But now I’ve been able to do those endless jobs.”

Life after politics was an adjustment for Morris, he said.

“Turning off the switch – the hard part of that for me was not being with the people. That was the tough part. It was nice to be anonymous but I miss that constant banter that you have with people in the office and with the people at City Hall and who work for the City.

“I enjoyed the people. Sometimes, the

people that I was with, we had difficult things to do, but we tried not to be difficult people. You’d twist wrists with one of the ministers or you would have to write a letter or something, but you always had the backing that they were human beings as well and they were doing their job,” he said.

“I miss regular opportunities to be at the college and with the health care system and the provincial government. It was excessive, but it was always fun.

“One of the difficulties is that when you back off, you have to let go. I often refer to it as zipping the lip. Fundamentally I keep my mouth shut because I am not in it and I don’t know all of the facts and if I really want to get into doing something, I know how to do it and I know where the buttons are.”

Morris said what he has enjoyed is the slower pace in his day-to-day life now.

“When you are the mayor, you have to change gears every 30 seconds. You’re dealing with the budget, then a phone call, then a reporter and then someone down the hall, then you have to send something to be photocopied and then you have to

proof read it – it is on and on,” he said.

“Using that sustained energy all day long I found was getting to me. I would come home and I would be just exhausted.”

Morris’ daily life looks a lot different than it used to while he was in the mayor’s chair.

“I get up now, I read the paper, I have breakfast and I walk the dog. I do a crossword puzzle and I open the mail, the day it arrives and I do the emails the day they come in. I have coffee whenever I want.

The days are full – life is good,” he added.

“But I haven’t disengaged myself. I write a lot of letters of reference for people.”

Looking ahead, Morris said he hopes to get involved with some committees and continue to be active in the community.

“I don’t want to get plugged into something that meets every month or every week. I’ve taken on what I call ad-hoc things, but not sustaining committees. I worked with the Community Foundation on a campaign and I was on the selection committee for the Citizen of the Year and the Young Citizen of the Year. I enjoy those things.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

Red Deer Express 15

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

Community at top of mind for local establishment Bo’s Bar & Grill wins silver award for the Best Place to Shoot Pool in City

BY KALISHA MENDONSA Red Deer Express Bo’s Bar & Grill has quickly become a Red Deer staple with its delicious foods, elegant drinks and fun hang out atmosphere.

This year, Bo’s was awarded a silver for the Best Place to Shoot Pool, but there is much more to the establishment than good billiards.

“The thing about Bo’s is that it’s constantly re-inventing itself.

“You can come in and see a live show several nights of the week, or come in on wing-night and have 300 people or more in here. It almost becomes like a club, but it’s a club where everyone is sitting and eating and having a great time,” said owner Brennan Wowk.

“You could come in the next night and see a charity event, of which we have a whole kind of different culture.

“You could come in Monday night for a movie with a friend or partner, and have a nice relaxed night. The idea is that you can step into Bo’s every day with a new experience.”

Wowk said that his main goal for Bo’s is to make it feel like a bigger version of your favourite neighbourhood pub. He said he wants everyone to come in and get the experience they are looking for, whether they come with a group, as a couple or by themselves.

He and the team at Bo’s have also been working hard at trying to raise Bo’s up

on the list of possible music venues in the City. As well, Bo’s has become a destination for charity events and fundraisers, such as the Game of Thrones-themed fundraiser that took place earlier this year in support of the MS Society.

“Charity events and community events are important because we are part of the community, first and foremost. I believe that as a team we are stronger than we are as individuals. As a community, the more we band together and support each other the stronger our community can become,” Wowk said.

“I also think that there are a lot of people out there who need help, and we are in a position and have a platform that we can use to help a lot of people. I think that is just as important as giving people a great time. It’s best when you can have a good time but also do something good.”

For Wowk, the ‘Eat, drink, think local’ slogan above the bar is meant to remind people they are part of a community. He said that the interpretation he wants people to take from that is that Bo’s brings to locals what the locals want.

“We try to evolve what we do based on the evolution of people in Red Deer. We work hard to run that through our company – we want that to be what Bo’s is to people.

“We’re not a chain and never will be. We are unique and I want people to know that they come into Bo’s and it’s a family.”

HANGING OUT - Prep cook Gerald Archer-Burgess takes some down time to enjoy one of two Kalisha Mendonsa/Red Deer Express pool tables at Bo’s Bar & Grill.

kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

“My Fellow Red Deerians, Congratulations to the 2015 ‘Best of Red Deer’ recipients.

Thank you for the privilege of representing you as your Mayor.

I look forward to continuing to make the possibilities become reality and building our great community with you.”

- Mayor Tara Veer

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Local Politician 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Most Beloved Red Deerian 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

This ad was paid for privately and not from public funds.

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16 Red Deer Express

Mindy Sitko

Jordan Courtright

Gary Smart

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

THANK YOU

RED DEER!

! k c o R u o Y Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Garland Jones

Nathan Cottenie

Jeff Warriner

Geoff Trentham

Kelly Grant

Pre-Owned 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

Over 1500 vehicles available! *

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Red Deer Express 17

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

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

DayCare!

u o Y k n Tha ! r e e D Red

Best of Red De er GOLD W INNER

Daycare

2015 R Choice eaders’ Awards

Tiny Toesare ayc Castle D thank our

e ke to would li Staff who hav ll fu er o, all ls A . wond d r a h he entire worked so ts and t their r the paren fo y communit making this in support possible! award

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FOCUS ON FORD - General manager of Go MGM Ford Lincoln Gord Skakun showcases a new

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Lincoln along with assistant sales manager Zac Moleschi, and sales managers Joel Schwartz and Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express Shane Hagen. Go MGM was awarded gold for Best New Car Dealer.

Every Style.

Every Budget.

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Including

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Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Carpet/Tile Store

“Wow! Thank you Red Deer for the votes again this year! We are humbled and honoured. Honestly, we love this City. And we love helping to make its interior spaces beautiful. Being recognized for our work is simply the icing on the cake.

Thanks to all our customers for the business and the relationships we have built over the last 37 years and thank you for another Gold.”

2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

- Andrew Wiebe, President

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18 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Top customer service fuels Mitchell & Jewell’s success

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express Mitchell & Jewell carries a range of jewellery and giftware displayed in a setting that melds a warm, traditional sensibility with a sophisticated, modern décor.

Customers certainly think so – the store landed gold in the Best Jewellery Store category in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

Mitchell & Jewell is also the longestrunning independently-owned business in the City.

The store was first launched as A.B. Mitchell Jewellers in downtown Red Deer.

In 2012, Sean and Granada Robinson partnered with owners Dick and Marilyn Jewell because Dick, whose father Bob joined forces with Alexander Mitchell back in 1950, was looking ahead to succession planning with the business.

“It’s incredible,” said Sean, now president of the company of the Best of Red Deer award. “That’s what we strive for in business everyday, is for people to enjoy their experience at Mitchell & Jewell. We just like helping our customers.

“We do this on a daily basis, but to hear this feedback is always rewarding and positive. It’s hard to measure what you think you are doing properly, so this acknowledges what we are succeeding with – so it’s tremendous. Red Deer gives us great support – we have a great client base and we are always trying to grow it.”

The Robinsons, who were partners with Granada’s parents in the Whitecourtbased Merchant Jewellers for many years,

TOPS - The staff at Mitchell & Jewell are proud to have been named the City’s top choice for Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express jewellery store in this year’s Best of Red Deer. brought extensive industry experience with them. Their friendship with Dick and Marilyn provided a wonderful opportunity – the Robinsons could partner in the venture and Dick and Marilyn could rest assured the future of the business was in excellent hands.

“The community has been very welcoming to us,” said Sean, reflecting on the past several years. “It feels like we were meant to be here – it really does.

MANCUSO

Celebrating Over

ANING E L C Y R E T S L O H P ARPET & U

C

YED MASTER & JOURNE

er Red De Best of INNER GOLD W

CLEANERS

55

YEARS OF OUTSTANDING SERVICE

“It’s been a great fit.”

Meanwhile, Dick is now retired, but as Sean points out, a strong connection to the business continues.

“He still has a strong commitment to Mitchell & Jewell – he values what it’s been to Red Deer and he values how it was for him and his family.”

Of course, the outstanding product line also keeps generations of customers returning. It’s a comfortable, warm environment to shop in – immaculate and polished

but still welcoming. There are antiques that beautifully represent the legacy and history of the business, but there is also a modern, fresh feel to the spacious, stylish showroom as well.

There are also plenty of conventional classic pieces, but customers can see their own personal designs in jewelry craftsmanship come vividly to life as well.

As Sean indicates, folks are usually coming in to buy something to mark a happy occasion. It’s an honour to be a part of that. “We don’t take that for granted. It’s a privilege to help celebrate a milestone in anyone’s life,” he said. “I think really it all goes back to the fact that we can help to create memories with people.

“It’s a very pleasurable business to be in.”

There are also, of course, plenty of options to choose from when selecting the ideal piece of jewellery.

“If we don’t have it, we will either find it or make it,” he explained. “That goes back to the vastness of options that are out there. We have some really talented custom goldsmiths.”

For Sean and his family, it’s a joy to serve the community and they are already gearing up for their 100-year celebrations in 2019. “People are coming in for a reason, and it’s in our best interests to help them find exactly what they are looking for,” said Sean. “It’s about the spending of time with customers to make sure we are on the same page.

“It’s also all built on trust and relationships in this business.” editor@reddeerexpress.com

Thank you Red Deer!

Thank you Red Deer & Central Alberta for your continued support & voting us Gold for the 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards!

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Retirement Home 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

Trust Your Home To Us ing Carpet Clean ders’

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A big T THANK YOU to all of our THAN voted for us and help us families s that vo Make year after year! e Our Mark M

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Red Deer Express 19

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

Thank You Red Deer For Your Continued Support!

We think you are great too!

D E V E N H W I C O L E E R S P D E I F I CERT r 200 vehicles to choose from!

Ove

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20 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Councillor Lee takes bronze for Best Local Politician Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

New Business 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

THANK YOU Red Deer Best of Red De er SILVER WINNE R

City Councillor 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

Best of Red De er SILVER WINNE R

Local Politician

2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

It’s an honour to serve you, let’s continue to move forward!

Ken Johnston

ROYAL LEGACY CONTINUES THE

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express City Councillor Lawrence Lee has been awarded bronze for Best Local Politician in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

“It’s very humbling. I feel fortunate - to be so early in my term as a City councillor and to be recognized in that way,” he said. “It’s great for me to think that with a City as big as ours and to be recognized in that way – it amazes me because I look at it as trying to do the best I can and trying to make the best decisions that I can - hopefully I do make that difference that helps our City grow and evolve.”

Lee was first elected to council in 2013.

Before that he served on the Red Deer Public School Board for nine years.

“I’ve always been of the mind that Red Deer has given me so much that I want to give back to Red Deer. I think public service just comes naturally,” he said. “I look at the City as a living organism and if you nurture it and you inspire it and take care of it, it’s going to grow. If you can be part of that, that’s a pretty wonderful thing.

“Right from the time of serving as a school trustee and moving into the role of a City councillor, I’ve really tried to reflect every day and determine is this decision or is this discussion that I am having making the community become a better place?”

In reflecting on his time so far on City council, Lee said one of the biggest surprises of the job was the time commitment required for a councillor position.

“In terms of the amount of work – that was certainly one of the first surprises. I really do believe that if you are going to do the best to serve the public, you put your whole heart into it and you have to dedicate that amount of time to it. For myself it has been like having two full-time jobs,” said Lee, who also works at ALA Capital Inc., as a senior analyst. “At first I thought it was really eye opening in terms of the amount of orientation and the amount of learning – you are dealing with so many, complex layered issues. It’s not just about infrastructure, it’s not just about capital, it’s about budgets, it’s about social aspects,

environmental awareness – it just opens your eyes in terms of how diverse and collaborative you have to be in terms of working with other levels of government and other politicians to be able to bridge those relationships and work very effectively.”

One of the most enjoyable aspects of a City councillor position for Lee has been working with his fellow councillors.

“Participating with such a dynamic group of councillors has been really great.

Also, I’ve enjoyed seeing some of the things that started way before my time come to fruition.”

He added although it is vital to take care of pressing issues, Lee has enjoyed diving into other community projects as well.

“There has always been the contentious stuff that people have looked at like snow and ice, bike lanes, urban chickens – things like that – but I really look towards the inspirational items like the Canada Winter Games, the Memorial Cup and where we participated with Sylvan Lake with Hockeyville.”

Lee said ultimately he strives to ensure the decisions he makes on council are decisions that are reflective of what the community wants.

“I look at every issue and try and see the best and I try to see how the constituents would approach it. I really keep that in mind – I’m not there for me, I am there for the general consensus,” he said. “I’ve continued to participate in many community boards and committees and I think that has been a learning experience in terms of learning different facets of the community whether they are geared towards the environment, downtown or municipal planning.”

In terms of what he would like to accomplish over the next two years, Lee said a revitalization plan for the City’s downtown and community building would be at the top of his list.

“City council has been very intentional about driving dialogue and community engagement and we have seen that come through in many projects. It is very intentional,” he said. efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Best Coach 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

CONGRATULATIONS! Red Deer College’s students, faculty and staff congratulate RDC Kings Basketball Coach, Clayton Pottinger.

REFLECTIVE - Councillor Lawrence Lee discusses his post with the City of Red Deer. Lee won www.rdc.ab.ca

bronze for Best Local Politician in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

Red Deer Express 21

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

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

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

Grocery Store

Pharmacy

2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

From Your Save On Foods Stores REWARDING OPPORTUNITY - Haylen Astalos, 5, joins Ronald McDonald House – Central Alberta staff members Cindy Soderstrom and Patti Parker at the house. He regularly raises money for the organization with his ice cream stand. The house was awarded gold for Best Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express Charitable Organization.

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HEAR WITH CONFIDENCE THANK YOU RED DEER

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22 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

u o Y k n Tha ! r e e D Red perated O & d e n w O y l l ince 1971 s a y t i n u m m o C Loc cal o L e h t f Part o

Peter Swainson PRESIDENT

Best o f Red Deer SILVE R WIN NER

New Car D

ea

ler 2015 R e ade Choic e Awa rs’ rds

“I would like to extend a huge thank you to our staff whose hard work and dedication to customer satisfaction have made these Readers’ Choice Awards possible. Way to go team!�

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Red Deer Express 23

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

2015 Readers’ Choice Awards RETAILERS

Furnace Cleaning ...............................Advanced Cleaning Solutions

Carpet/Tile ........................................................ Carpet Colour Centre

Home Security Provider ................................... Ambusch Securities

Furniture ........................................................................Sims Furniture

Home Builder ............................................................... Laebon Homes

Home Building Centre .....................................................Home Depot

Retirement Home .......................Redwoods Retirement Residence

Paint ..............................................Fargeys Paint and Wall Coverings

Hotel/Motel ........................................................... Sheraton Red Deer

Hot Tub/Spa ..................................................... Sun N Fun Pool & Spa

Financial Institution ................................................ TD Canada Trust

Computers/Home Electronics ............................................. Best Buy

Mortgage Brokerage .............Dominion Lending Centres Regional

Bridal Wear ..........................................................Your Wedding Place

Mortgage Group

Formal Wear-Men’s ................................... Moores Clothing For Men

Moving Company..................................................... Red Deer Movers

Formal Wear-Women’s....................................................... Le Chateau

Storage Rental ......................................................... Sentinal Storage

Men’s Clothing ........................................... Moores Clothing For Men

Travel Agency .................................................................................AMA

Women’s Clothing ............................................... Side Street Fashion

Vet Clinic .............................................Piper Creek Veterinary Clinic

Western Wear ...................................................... Wei’s Western Wear

Pet Boarding/Daycare ..................................... 4 Paws Dog Daycare

Lingerie........................................................................The Bra Lounge

Auto Body Shop ........................................... Boyd Autobody & Glass

Shoes ............................................................................... Great Strides

RV Service/Repair ...............................Go Uncle Ben’s RV & Marine

Floral .............................................................Stems Flowers and Café

Muffler Shop ...................................................... Carline Muffler Shop

Jewellery ...................................................................Mitchell & Jewell

Transmission Shop............................................. Mister Transmission

Optical ........................................................................Doctor’s Eyecare

Oil/Lube Service ..................................................................... Mr. Lube

Pets ......................................................................................... PetSmart

Gas Station ......................................................Central Alberta Co-op

Department Store ....................................................................The Bay

Car Wash.................................................................... Jumbo Car Wash

Place to shop .................................................................... Bower Place

Plumbing Company...............................Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating

Liquor ........................................................................Solo Liquor Store

Electrical Company ................................................Red Deer Electric

Grocery ............................................................................Sobeys South

Funeral Services...........Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium

Fitness Supplement Store............................Popeye’s Supplements Gardening Centre ..................Parkland Nurseries & Garden Centre

ENTERTAINMENT

Sporting Goods .................................................................. Sport Chek

Night Club .................................................................................. Bellinis

Tires ........................................................................................... Kal Tire

Live Music ..................................................................................The Vat

New Car Dealer ................................................ Go MGM Ford Lincoln

Karaoke ............................................................................ Karaoke Klub

Used Car Dealer ....................................................... Red Deer Motors

Place to Shoot Pool ..............................................The Corner Pocket

RV Dealer ................................................................Woody’s RV World

Golf Course ...............................River Bend Golf & Recreation Area

Motorcycle/Powersports .............. Gasoline Alley Harley Davidson

Indoor/Outdoor Festival ...................................Red Deer CentreFest

Lawn & Garden Equipment.......................................... Canadian Tire Farm Implement Dealer ........................Deermart Equipment Sales

PEOPLE Esthetic.............................................................................Fig Esthetics

SERVICES

Nail Salon ..........................................................................Kim Lu Nails

Accounting ........................ CGL Strategic Business & Tax Advisors

Hair Stylist ..................................... Shauna Bossert - Tangelo Salon

Chiropractic Clinic ................ Family First Chiropractic & Wellness

Massage Therapy Clinic ............ Totally Refreshed Steam and Spa

Daycare ....................................................... Tiny Toes Castle Daycare

Realtor ...................................................................... Richard Pochylko

Pharmacy ............................................................Shoppers Drug Mart

Radio DJ ............................................ Jamie Worthington @ BIG 105

Pet Grooming...................................................................... Fetch Haus

Coach ........................... Natalie Brooks - Chair Tease Dance Studio

Tanning Salon ................................. Bronze Zone Tanning Company

Volunteer ............................................................................Lyn Radford

Tattoo Shop .................................................................... Classic Tattoo

Most Beloved Red Deerian ...................................... Mayor Tara Veer

Fitness/Gym ................................................................ Collicutt Centre

Corporate Citizen..............................................................Trevor Aslin

Dance Studio .......................................................Dance Magic Studio

Local Politician .......................................................... Mayor Tara Veer

Yoga Studio .......................................................................Bikram Yoga

City Councillor .................................................................... Paul Harris

Weight Loss Clinic..............................................U Weight Loss Clinic Hearing Solutions ............................... Beltone/The Hearing Centre

OTHER

Picture Framing .......................................................................Michaels

Best Customer Service/Friendlist Staff ....................Sobeys South

Dry Cleaning ............................................................ Sterling Cleaners

Best Charitable Organization ...................Ronald McDonald House

Tailor Alterations ................................................ Gloria’s Alterations

Central Alberta

Carpet Cleaning .................................... Mancuso Cleaning Services

Best New Business .............Universoul - Yoga Movement Therapy

24 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

2015 Readers’ Choice Awards RETAILERS Carpet/Tile .................................................. Central Alberta Flooring Furniture ................................................................................. The Brick Home Building Centre .................................................................. Rona Paint ...................................................................................Home Depot Hot Tub/Spa ......................................................................... Artic Spas Computers/Home Electronics ........................... Visions Electronics Bridal Wear ....................................................Bridal Couture Dezigns Formal Wear-Men’s ..................................................... Milano For Men Formal Wear-Women’s.............................................................The Bay Men’s Clothing ............................................................. Milano For Men Women’s Clothing .......................................................................Ricki’s Western Wear .............................................. Lammle’s Western Wear Lingerie....................................................................................La Senza Shoes ......................................................................... Shoe Warehouse Floral ....................................................................... Floral Expressions Jewellery .................................................................. Clowes Jewellers Optical ............................................................................. Hakim Optical Pets .............................................................................................Petland Department Store ............................................. Winners/Homesense Place to Shop.................................................................. Parkland Mall Liquor ........................................................................... Liquor Crossing Grocery .......................................................................... Save On Foods Fitness Supplement Store............................................................ GNC Gardening Centre ............................................Central Alberta Co-op Sporting Goods .................................................. Play it Again Sports Tires ....................................................................................... Don’s Tire New Car Dealer ............................... Kipp Scott GMC Cadillac Buick Used Car Dealer .................. Southside Dodge Chrysler Jeep & RV RV Dealer ............................................................Western RV Country Motorcycle/Powersports .............................. Precision Cycle Works Lawn & Garden Equipment.............................................Home Depot Farm Implement Dealer ................................. Hammer New Holland

Furnace Cleaning .................................. Red Deer Furnace Cleaning Home Security Provider ................................... Reliance Protectron Home Builder ................................................... Abbey Master Builder Retirement Home .......................................Symphony Senior Living Hotel/Motel ......................................................................... Holiday Inn Financial Institution ................................................. RBC Royal Bank Mortgage Brokerage ........................... Red Deer Mortgage Brokers Moving Company........................................... Home to Home Moving Storage Rental ..................................................................... U-Store-It Travel Agency .............................................................. Canwest Travel Vet Clinic .........................................Cedarwood Veterinary Hospital Pet Boarding/Daycare .............................................. Freedom House Auto Body Shop ............................................... First Choice Collision RV Service/Repair ............................. Red Deer RV Parts & Service Muffler Shop ...................................... Custom Muffler & Brake Shop Transmission Shop.........................................Parkland Transmission Oil/Lube Service ........................................................... Canadian Tire Gas Station ................................................................................... ESSO Car Wash................................................................................... Mr. Suds Plumbing Company................................. G & G Plumbing & Heating Electrical Company ..........................................Cunningham Electric Funeral Services............. Eventide Funeral Chapel & Crematorium ENTERTAINMENT Night Club ...................................................................Lotus Nightclub Live Music .............................................................Fratters Speakeasy Karaoke ..........................................................................Lion’s Den Pub Place to Shoot Pool .................................................... Bo’s Bar & Grill Golf Course ....................................................... Balmoral Golf Course Indoor/Outdoor Festival ........................................... Festival of Trees PEOPLE Esthetic................................................................................ MC College

SERVICES Accounting .................................................................... Collins Barrow Chiropractic Clinic ............. Red Deer Chiropractic & Laser Centre Daycare ..................................................................Red Deer Childcare Pharmacy ...................................................................... Save On Foods Pet Grooming...............................................Doggy Dos & Kitties Too Tanning Salon .......................................................... Tropical Paradise Tattoo Shop .......................................................... Art and Soul Tattoo Fitness/Gym .......................................................................360 Fitness Dance Studio ....................................................... Dance Traxx Studio Yoga Studio ............................ Breathing Room Yoga Studio & Cafe Weight Loss Clinic........................ Jenny Craig Weight Loss Center Hearing Solutions ................................ Strategic Hearing Solutions Picture Framing ............................................................ Frame-It Store Dry Cleaning ......................................... Classic Cleaners and Tailors Tailor Alterations ................................. Classic Cleaners and Tailors Carpet Cleaning ............................................... Steam Clean Express

Nail Salon ............................................................... Divine Nails & Spa Hair Stylist ........................ Aaron Boucharnd - Crop Hair Boutique Massage Therapy Clinic ...........Associate Massage Therapy Clinic Realtor ......................................................................... Andrew Russell Radio DJ ............................................................... Bec Dent @ Big 105 Coach ............................................................Clayton Pottinger - RDC Volunteer ..........................................................................Kelly Tibbets Most Beloved Red Deerian ...........................................Michael Dawe Corporate Citizen..............................................................Gord Bontje Local Politician .............................................................. Ken Johnston City Councillor ............................................................... Ken Johnston OTHER Best Customer Service/Friendliest Staff ...... Servus Credit Union Best Charitable Organization ................. Central Alberta Women’s Emergency Shelter Best New Business ................................................... The Float Shack

Red Deer Express 25

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

2015 Readers’ Choice Awards RETAILERS

Furnace Cleaning ............................ Bradley Air Furnance Cleaning

Carpet/Tile ...................................................Central Alberta Tile One

Home Security Provider ................................................................ADT

Furniture .................................................................... Ashley Furniture

Home Builder ................................................................. Falcon Homes

Home Building Centre .............................................. Home Hardware

Retirement Home ............................................................. Piper Creek

Paint ............................................................................Cloverdale Paint

Hotel/Motel ................................................................Black Knight Inn

Hot Tub/Spa ....................................................................Dynasty Spas

Financial Institution .......................................... Servus Credit Union

Computers/Home Electronics .................................... London Drugs

Mortgage Brokerage ............................................ Get ‘ER Done Girls

Bridal Wear ................................. Elite Bridal and Fashion Boutique

Moving Company............................ Two Small Men With Big Hearts

Formal Wear-Men’s ......................................... Black Knight Tuxedos

Storage Rental ...................................................................AB Storage

Formal Wear-Women’s........................................ Side Street Fashion

Travel Agency ........................................ Expedia Cruise Ship Center

Men’s Clothing ........................................................Rob Rae Clothiers

Vet Clinic ............................................... East Hill Dog & Cat Hospital

Women’s Clothing ....................................................................The Bay

Pet Boarding/Daycare ...............................Doggy Dos & Kitties Too

Western Wear .....................................................................Jones Boys

Auto Body Shop ......................................... Caliber Paint & Body Inc

Lingerie......................................................................................The Bay

RV Service/Repair .................................................Woody’s RV World

Shoes ........................................................................................ SoftMoc

Muffler Shop .................................................................................Midas

Floral ................................................................. La Petite Jaune Fleur

Transmission Shop......................................... National Transmission

Jewellery .................................................................Peoples Jewellers

Oil/Lube Service ................................................................. Minit Lube

Optical ................................................................... Consumer’s Optical Pets ............................................................................ Global Pet Foods Department Store ........................................................................ Sears Place to Shop..................................................... Winners/Homesense Liquor ................................................................Central Alberta Co-op Grocery .............................................................Central Alberta Co-op Fitness Supplement Store................................ Reflex Supplements Gardening Centre ........................................Dentoom’s Greenhouses Sporting Goods ........................................... Gord’s First Line Sports Tires ..................................................................................Fountain Tire New Car Dealer ................... Southside Dodge Chrysler Jeep & RV Used Car Dealer ..........................................................Cam Clark Ford RV Dealer .............................................. Go Uncle Ben’s Rv & Marine Motorcycle/Powersports ............................. Parkland Sled and ATV Lawn & Garden Equipment...................... Hertz Equiptment Rental Farm Implement Dealer .......................................................Future Ag

Gas Station .......................................................................Fas Gas Plus Car Wash.............................................................South Side Car Wash Plumbing Company...................................... Ken’s Plumbing Service Electrical Company ............................... Studon Electric & Controls Funeral Services............ Red Deer Funeral Homes & Crematorium ENTERTAINMENT Night Club .............................................................................Billy Bob’s Live Music ............................................................................... Cowboys Karaoke .......................................................................... East 40th Pub Place to Shoot Pool ..................................................................The Vat Golf Course ........................................... Alberta Springs Golf Resort Indoor/Outdoor Festival ............................................Westerner Days PEOPLE Esthetic........................................................ Medi Aesthetics Institue

SERVICES

Nail Salon .......................................................... Five Star Nails & Spa

Accounting ...................................................................................... MNP

Hair Stylist ................. Jesse Marriott - Utopia Hair & Lash Studio

Chiropractic Clinic ...................................Village Chiropractic Clinic

Massage Therapy Clinic .................... Advantage Massage Therapy

Daycare ............................................... Lotsa Tots Childcare Services

Realtor ............................................................................. Janice Resch

Pharmacy .............................................. Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy

Radio DJ ....................................................... Matt The News @ Kraze

Pet Grooming..................................................... 4 Paws Dog Daycare

Coach ............................................... Brent Sutter - Red Deer Rebels

Tanning Salon ............................................. Fabutan Sun Tan Studios

Volunteer ..............................................................................Val Jensen

Tattoo Shop ............................................................Rorschach Tattoos

Most Beloved Red Deerian ..................................Morris Flewwelling

Fitness/Gym ...........................................Body Basics Fitness Centre

Corporate Citizen............................................................. Jack Donald

Dance Studio ................................................. Strive Dance Academy

Local Politician .............................................................. Lawrence Lee

Yoga Studio ........................................................................ YogaNation

City Councillor ................................................................... Frank Wong

Weight Loss Clinic...................... Herbal Magic Weight Loss Centre Hearing Solutions .......................................Riverland Hearing Clinic

Best Customer Service/Friendliest Staff ................ Bridal Couture

Picture Framing ..............................Four Corners Gallery & Framing

Dezigns

Dry Cleaning ................................................................. Ultra Cleaners

Best Charitable Organization ................................................. C.A.R.E

Tailor Alterations ......................................................Euro Tailor Shop

- Central Alberta Refugee Effort

Carpet Cleaning .................................Advanced Cleaning Solutions

Best New Business ................................................................. Sephora

26 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

RDC basketball coach recognized for dedication

BY KALISHA MENDONSA Red Deer Express For Red Deer College coach Clayton Pottinger, coaching is the epitome of the fun in being a teacher.

His dedication to coaching men’s basketball has resulted in him receiving the silver award for Best Coach in the City. He said this recognition truly surprised and humbled him.

‘I WANT TO SAY THANK YOU FOR ANYONE OUT THERE WHO VOTED. I AM TRULY HUMBLED BY THIS.’

get to choose my class and pick my team.

My class size is small – there are 15 guys I work with. And, they are usually highly motivated and in it for their own reasons.

“It’s the perfect teaching situation and I’m teaching a subject I love,” he smiled.

Pottinger said each season brings reminders of why he loves coaching. He said it comes from the athletes who put in effort, from a great teaching environment and from watching the progression and drive develop in his pupils.

Last year’s season stands out in his mind and he said he’s happy to have been a part of it.

“Something that sticks out a lot for me is

probably the 2013/2014 season and the 2014 national championships. We kind of had a storybook season.

“We played so well. We had highs and lows but what I liked the best was watching the guys commit to something and then reaping the rewards. Sometimes you’ll commit to something and do everything you can right, and things still don’t work out your way. That can sort of shake your faith in what you’re doing, but it was nice to see them reap the rewards,” Pottinger said.

“We went 17 (wins) and three (losses) in the season, winning the provincial championship and going right to the national

championship final. We lost in the final, but still from top to bottom performed incredibly.”

Pottinger said a national championship win changed his life, and he hopes to provide the same opportunities for the guys he coaches.

“My ultimate core goal as a coach is to give these guys that type of experience that I had. When they leave Red Deer College, hopefully with their degrees or whatever, they’ve left a changed person for the better. I want them to be smarter, more driven, more competitive, more astute – all of those things that will benefit their lives.” kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

CLAYTON POTTINGER “I want to say thank you for anyone out there who voted. I am truly humbled by this. A lot goes into it. I have an excellent coaching staff, and you need players that buy in and support from the athletic department,” Pottinger said.

“Sometimes as coaches we end up getting credit in situations like this and of course I’m appreciative, but I would like to share that with all the other people that play a part in making this happen.”

Pottinger has made a career in education and coaching across Alberta. He received his education to be a math teacher and taught for a number of years in that field. He said eventually, he realized he was enjoying coaching on the side more than teaching math, so he started seeking out a way to make the switch.

“I went to Kings University College and was head coach there. I was head coach at Douglas College in Vancouver and I was assistant coach of University of Alberta for a while. There was a pro team in Edmonton – the Edmonton Chill at the time – and I was assistant coach with them.

Anywhere I could find a coaching gig and sort of bolster my resume, I was doing that in preparation for a job like this at Red Deer College – one that was permanent,” he said.

“I like teaching, and coaching is teaching but it’s like the quintessential teaching situation. Unlike in other teaching, I

LEADERSHIP - Clayton Pottinger, pictured here in the Red Deer College gym, has been awarded silver for Best Coach in Red Deer.

Kalisha Mendonsa/Red Deer Express

“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!

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Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

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

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Red Deer Express 27

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

RED DEER ELECTRIC

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www.reddeerelectric.ca FURRY FRIEND - Sarah Mackay, pet stylist for Fetch Haus, grooms a client. The store’s Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express impeccable grooming landed them gold for Best Pet Grooming.

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Thank You Red Deer & Central Alberta!

What a great honour! We wouldn’t be here without you!

In the past 12 years we have raised over $1,800,000.00 through Golf/Build a Kid to a Cure with the support of our amazing sponsors.

Those funds stay right here and support a variety of children’s causes.

DLC-Regional Mortgage has received the nomination for the past 3 years for this national award and we were so honored to have won.

Pictured here are Pam Pikkert and Adela Clement accepting the award on behalf of the whole team.

Thank You so much Red Deer! We look forward to serving you for years to come! #102, 5229 – 50 Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta 403.343.1125 info@regionalmortgage.ca www.RegionalMortgage.ca

Best of Red D eer GOLD WINNER

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28 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

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Red Deer Express 29

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

Side Street Fashion secures two Best of Red Deer awards

BY KALISHA MENDONSA Red Deer Express For Elsie Anctil fashion has always been a passion.

Anctil and her husband Mike own Side Street Fashion & Accessories, located within the Sheraton Hotel. She has found great joy in operating the ladies’ clothing store and her efforts have resulted in being awarded gold for Best Women’s Clothing as well as bronze for Best Women’s Formal Wear.

“This recognition makes me feel awesome because I thought that a lot of people in Red Deer still don’t know about our store. They know about the hotel, but not many people in the City know about the store, unless they’ve been to an event at the Sheraton,” Elsie said. “We have owned this store for less than a year, so to receive these awards is unreal. For people to have nominated us means that people do know about us, and that makes me so excited it’s hard to put it into words.”

Elsie added she wants the store to be a ‘destination place’ for all ladies.

“We’ve got from informal to very formal type wear. We’ve got inexpensive to a higher

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line of clothing. We’re going to be bringing in new lines all the time, but will still keep the lines that people are happy with and come to the store for,” she said.

“We want to try new things, because we don’t want people to think that they have to go to the big cities to get what they want. Everything that they need is right here, they just have to come to us and we will help them find what they need.”

Five years ago, Elsie decided she wanted to approach the former owner and ask her about her plans with the store.

“I loved the store. I shopped here myself and loved it, loved the location – everything about it. I asked her if she was hiring and she said, ‘Oh, do you want a job?’ I said, ‘No – I want your business.’”

Over the next couple of years, Elsie took a part-time job at the store while she was working with the Hospital Foundation. She and her husband joined the then owners on buying shows to scout new products and were introduced to what would become their new business partners.

After many years spent working in the non-profit sector Elsie made the jump

to fashion. Elsie and Mike had been involved and learning for some time and finally bought the store less than a year ago.

“It was very busy. Within the first month, we had done four buying shows already and had a trunk show, where our major designer comes in and shows the next season.

Everything was happening so fast. I guess all of my other jobs have prepared me for this because I don’t find it a struggle to manage. It’s busy and it’s long hours, but I’ve always worked long hours,” Elsie said.

“I work till midnight every night but I love it because it’s for us. It’s totally different when you work for another business and you’re putting in those hours versus working for yourself. When you really love what you do, everything goes into it. The staff here came over from before, so they all knew what they were doing. The transition was awesome that way.”

Elsie said she was very humbled to have received recognition for the store and that she hopes more people venture to the store, tucked in the Sheraton Hotel, to take a look. kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

MULTI-WINNER - Owner Elsie Anctil stands in her store, Side Street Fashion & Accessories. The store received two awards – gold for Best Women’s Clothing and Kalisha Mendonsa/Red Deer Express bronze for Best Women’s Formal Wear.

Thank you Red Deer & Central Alberta!

We could not be here without you!

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30 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Family First Chiropractic tops in providing care

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express With a commitment to providing quality healthcare, Family First Chiropractic and Wellness has landed gold in the Best Chiropractic Clinic category in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

Dr. Joelle Johnson, Dr. Stephen Kelly and Dr. Elton Clemence are very pleased with the designation and each say it stems from their efforts as a team to ensure families receive the time, attention and care they deserve. Johnson first set up the practice at 142 Erickson Dr. six years ago.

“I think it’s pretty amazing – it’s humbling that we’ve been able to touch families and people’s hearts in Central Alberta by trying to be the best that we can be,” said Johnson. “It’s really nice that people have recognized us in that way.”

Dr. Kelly emphasized the family-welcoming feel of the clinic as well as being part of the reason for the gold designation, along with the solid team of the practitioners and the support staff as well. “It’s a friendly atmosphere, and it’s also kidfriendly and infant friendly. That’s a helpful thing for mothers who have their hands full already.”

Johnson agreed. “We try to make it a positive atmosphere and supportive to parents,” she said. “We try to support the family as a whole.

“We are also very open to teamwork with other practitioners. We will inter-refer and out-refer to acupuncture, physiotherapists, naturopaths and medical doctors. We

take that team-healthcare approach within Central Alberta, and using those amazing resources we have here for family care.”

Family First Chiropractic also provides pre-natal care, babies’ and children’s chiropractic care. Other services include orthotics, natural health products, nutritional information and a monthly health newsletter.

Johnson said many times, patients come for treatment who have never been to a chiropractor before. “We seeing people come for pregnancy care, for autism, sometimes for developmental delays because it might be a muscular-skeletal issue. We’re looking at things from a different perspective,” she explained.

Being located in a residential area also offers a bit of a difference as well. “Being more family-centred, we thought let’s try something a little bit more in a residential area – I think it’s been good, and I think it’s helped the areas of Eastview and Clearview. It’s a great location. We are close to the north as well, so we get a lot of people from the 67th Street area plus from the Vanier district on the south end.”

She also emphasized the convenient hours of the clinic. “We are open late too, so we try to make it accessible as well.

“There are usually two people in the clinic, which is nice in having that team – as I mentioned, we work together.”

On Aug. 18th, the clinic is hosting an appreciation event called the Family First Festival at the Clearview Hall from 5 to 8 p.m. which includes a free barbecue and lots of activities for the kids. There will be

FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE - The team at Family First Chiropractic and Wellness took home gold for Best Chiropractic Clinic in this year’s Best of Red Deer. From left are Justine King, Dr. Elton Clemence, Dr. Joelle Johnson, Dr. Stephen Kelly and Crystal Jabs, who are among the staff Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express members who helped make it possible. a watermelon eating contest for the kids and a pie eating contest for the grown-ups, too. “It’s a way to say thank you to our patients,” said Johnson, adding that about 300 people showed up last year for the inaugural event.

Ultimately, Clemence said the team environment is also a plus to the service at the

clinic, adding the doctors work to support each other and also learn from each other.

“The thing that separates us from other professions is that we get to use our heads, our hearts and our hands at the same time.

“We also appreciate our patients. We appreciate them coming to see us.”

Thank You Central Alberta

editor@reddeerexpress.com

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

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Red Deer Express 31

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

Caliber Paint & Body lands bronze “We will make it work – we are always very accommodating.” If a customer needs to drop by after hours to pick up their vehicle, Dedicated to top customer service and or during the weekend, it’s not a problem. follow through, Caliber Paint & Body Inc. A staffer will be onhand to assist them. has landed bronze in the category of Best “We understand people’s lives and their Auto Body Shop in this year’s Best of Red schedules.

Deer.

“We are always going that extra mile to Family-owned and operated since 2007, make sure they are happy.” the business was built from the ground up With 14 highly-trained staff, established and has been expanding ever since. clients in the auto dealership, insurance, Originally located on Golden West Ave- oilfield, construction, agriculture and nue, they relocated to Johnstone Drive two trucking industries, customers can count years ago, more than doubling their size on Caliber having both the equipment and with a 16,000 sq. ft. shop, said owner Carey the experience to handle any auto body MacDonald. job, no matter the size, he said.

He said that the staff’s commitment to Primary services include painting, being on the level with customers has al- paintless dent repair, body work and frame ways contributed to their repairs. success and to their con“I like that I got to build “WE ARE ALWAYS GOING it from the ground up,” stant growth over the THAT EXTRA MILE TO MAKE said MacDonald. “I went years as well.

“We are always straight SURE THEY ARE HAPPY.’ around to the people I up with people,” he exknew, and explored differplained, adding that if a ent avenues like oil field FRANK FAUBERT type of job can’t be done and construction or whatat Caliber, he will be honest with clients ever it was, and said, hey, I’m starting up a and tell them so. The family-owned as- shop and I’m here for you,” he said. “And pect of the business also contributes to a they helped me out – they helped me get friendly and comfortable environment for going.” customers to come in and discuss what For MacDonald, working with people is they need to have done. “That’s really our a big part of what he likes best about his motto – let’s keep the customers happy. work. He’s also committed to lending a “We have a lot of repeat customers.” supportive hand to a number of commuStaff member Frank Faubert pointed nity causes as well. out that the family-run aspect of the busi“I like talking to people – as soon as they ness helps keep things more personable come in, and they’ve been in an accident, with customers as well. “Right off the bat let’s try and cheer them up,” he said. “Let’s I would say it’s more grounded because of make their experience here as easy and that. simple as possible. Let’s get them looked “We are always trying to accommo- after, get their car done and get it back to date people as much as we possibly can,” them,” he added. “Our job is to make sure he said, adding he’s been in other shops the job is done right. where the staff simply decline to take care “We pride ourselves on doing the best of any number of items that need atten- possible job that we can.” editor@reddeerexpress.com tion for whatever reason. Not so at Caliber.

With your support we’ve served more than 2,300 families.

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express

*Including out-of-town and day use families since opening in Feb. 2012

Bryson and Jackson The Slimmon family stayed at the House for 25 nights.

Helping give sick children what they need most… their families.TM

www.rmhcentralalberta.org Thank you for choosing Ronald McDonald House® Charities Central Alberta as one of the best charities in Red Deer.

THANK YOU RED DEER!

Best of Red Deer SILVER WINNER

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

Tire Store 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

DON’S TIRE

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

Distributors For: • Firestone • Bridgestone • BF Goodrich

1975 Gaetz Ave. (Just South of Earl’s Restaurant) 403-347-5501 er Red De Best of INNER GOLD W

Thank You Red Deer!

We are humbled & honored by your support “Our family will be here for your family.”

eral Ser vices

Fun

aders’ 2015 ReAwards Choice

Remembering a Life Lived is Worth Celebrating

Let Us Help You Plan a Service of Remembrance For Your Loved One

“ONLY ONLY locally owned and operated Funeral Home in the City of Red Deer.”

Central Alberta Family Funeral Services Ltd.

COLLISION REPAIR - Caliber Paint & Body took bronze this year for Best Auto Body Shop thanks to the work done by owner Carey MacDonald, sons Keaton and Laine and Frank Faubert.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

403.340.4040

Taylor Drive, Red Deer

www.parklandfuneralhome.com

32 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

T hanks Red Deer! er Red De Best of INNER GOLD W

aner Furnace Cleders’

a 2015 ReAwards Choice

Because we care about the air you breathe!

Best of Red De er BRONZ E WINN ER

Carpet Clean

er 2015 R Choice eaders’ Awards

Serving Red Deer & Central Alberta since 1998

Red Deer, AB

403-304-2222

www.advanced-cleaning.ca

CUSTOM FITTING - Christian Lintan gets suited up with help from Moores Clothing For Men wardrobe consultant Dustin Evangelista. Moores was awarded gold for Best Men’s Clothing and Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express gold for Best Men’s Formal Wear.

D T L R A E W N R R E A T E S W WE WORK & Thank you Red Deer & Central Alberta for your continued support!

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

5115 Gaetz Avenue Downtown

403-347-3149

Western Wear 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

Venture Plaza 6715 Gaetz Avenue

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Part of the community since 1956

Red Deer Express 33

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

GREEN GALORE - Mark Emann, long-time Deermart Equipment Sales employee and parts salesmen showcases the broad range of equipment available at the business, which won gold for Best Farm Equipment Implement Dealer.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

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

Congratulations to all winners of the 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards!

Best o f Red Dee GOLD WINNE r R

The Specialists!

Gardening

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ntre 2015 Choic Readers’ e Awa rds

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Thank You

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Retirement Home 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

The Redwoods residents and team would like to thank you Red Deer for choosing us as the 2015 Gold Winner! www.theredwoods.ca

Red Deer and Central Alberta for selecting me for the 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards.

“I am humbled and thrilled.”

Jack

Donald

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

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Corporate Citizen 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

34 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Kelly Tibbets honoured with silver as Best Volunteer

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express

T

here are people who take those extremely challenging aspects of life and use it for a wonderful purpose; for the greater good. Red Deer’s Kelly Tibbets is one of those people. Tibbets took silver in the Best Volunteer category in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

Tibbets launched the annual The Princess Ball back in 2012 – which raises funds for cystic fibrosis research. According to the Cystic Fibrosis Canada web site, cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common fatal genetic disease affecting Canadian children and young adults. There is no cure.

CF causes various effects on the body, but mainly affects the digestive system and lungs. It differs from person to person.

However, the persistence and ongoing infection in the lungs, with destruction of lungs and loss of lung function, eventually causes death in the majority of people who have CF. Typical complications are difficulty in digesting fats and proteins; vitamin deficiencies due to loss of pancreatic enzymes and progressive loss of lung function.

It is estimated one in every 3,600 children born in Canada has CF. Almost 4,000 Canadian children, adolescents and adults with it attend specialized CF clinics.

Tibbets’ daughter Rowan was diagnosed with CF at just three weeks of age, back in 2009. “What happens is you get this huge mucous build-up, so every system in your body that relies on mucous to transport hormones or enzymes or to get bacteria out of your body – that all gets clogged up all the time, everyday,” explains Kelly.

Rowan’s digestive enzymes weren’t going from her pancreas to her small intestine. “She just wasn’t thriving,” recalls Kelly of those early days. She recalls being terrified at hearing the news initially. “I knew they were going to give me a lot of information, and I knew that if I crossed over to emotion, they probably couldn’t bring me back,” she said. But as she learned more about CF, some hope was sparked.

“The prognosis we got that day was that we had every reason to believe she would get married, she would go to university – she would live this life they are anticipating.

“The exciting thing about her prognosis is that there was really very little damage done to her body. So now we step in, start treating it and doing all of the work to keep her healthy.” Rowan’s daily regimen includes taking about 20 pills each day.

“Since her diagnosis, she has taken more than 30,000 pills.

“She also does 20 minutes of lung therapy per day, which is for airway clearance,” said Kelly. “The average adult with cystic fibrosis does the equivalent of four months’ full time work doing treatments every year. That’s health maintenance.”

As time passed, Kelly became increasingly involved in the work of advocating for CF research and helping to build overall awareness. She decided, in 2012, to plan the first Princess Ball – a magical and unique fundraiser for CF research that treats children to a fun and unforgettable evening of food and entertainment.

The first was held at the Memorial Centre with 300 guests. “We raised $12,000 the first time. And we knew from the response that the Memorial Centre just wasn’t large enough.”

The following year they held the Ball

INSPIRATIONAL - Kelly Tibbets won silver in the Best Volunteer category for this year’s Best of Red Deer. She’s pictured here with her children photo courtesy of Donnelly Photography Rowan, 5, and Reese, 8. at the Sheraton, where it’s been put on ever since. Earlier this year, two balls were hosted there for the cause. About 450 people attended each event. “This year we raised $57,000.”

Kelly, who is also president of the local CF chapter, describes the Princess Ball as being completely for the kids. “It’s whimsical, it’s magical – there are popular fairy tale characters there. It’s a beautiful ballroom – an amazing ballroom. The children dance with the characters, who then take them to their tables.

“They come in, we do our opening ceremonies, and then we release them onto the dance floor,” she adds with a smile. Professional photographers are onhand to snap shots of the kids, too. “We have cupcakes, a rainbow raffle and a silent auction. I think it’s just the most amazing opportunity for children to see what a fundraiser is.”

Kelly recalls learning of a similar event held in Saskatchewan and when her daughter was still a baby, the concept struck a chord with Kelly. “I felt like if I

didn’t do it, someone else would because it’s such a great idea. I love a fundraiser that people would buy a ticket for whether it was a charity or not. It’s a lot of work, but it doesn’t feel like work.”

‘I LOVE A FUNDRAISER THAT PEOPLE WOULD BUY A TICKET FOR WHETHER IT WAS A CHARITY OR NOT. IT’S A LOT OF WORK, BUT IT DOESN’T FEEL LIKE WORK.’ KELLY TIBBETS It’s really part of caring for Rowan, and for all those out there affected by CF. “It feels like an extension of my motherhood.”

Across the country, the local event has inspired about eight other communities including Windsor, Winnipeg, Regina, Edmonton, Calgary and Stettler to host their own Princess Balls as well.

“I’m very proud that most of the busi-

nesses that participated in 2012 still continue to be involved and active with this event. This year, we had Pike Wheaton sign on as our title sponsor, which was a dream come true for me.

“Central Alberta is mind-blowing to me,” she adds, referring to the level of local generosity. “Every dollar is personal to me. Every dollar feels like it’s being given right to us – and not just the dollars.

“Anytime anybody does anything, I’m very overwhelmed by that.” Gifts in kind mean the world as well, she said.

In the meantime, there is always room for more folks to come onboard and support the effort. And as to volunteering in general, Kelly urges people to sign up.

“Just do something – what if every single person in this City or province did something in a volunteering capacity – even 20 minutes a week. I don’t think I’d be as mindful of half the things I’m mindful of – it just gives you a different perspective on what is important.” editor@reddeerexpress.com

Red Deer Express 35

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

Thank You, Red Deer!

The residents have voted for The Best of Red Deer and Servus is the 2015 winner for: 6LOYHU t %HVW &XVWRPHU 6HUYLFH )ULHQGOLHVW 6WDƪ Bronze – Financial Institution We’re proud to be part of this wonderful community and strive to keep serving you better each and every day.

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Taylor Plaza branch 400, 6730 Taylor Drive

servus.ca Personal | Mortgages | Investments | Loans | Insurance | Business

DETAIL - Dylan Brown, owner of Art & Soul Tattoo Studio, works away on a portrait of Al Capone Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express on a client. The local business took home silver for Best Tattoo Shop.

Come in, Relax & Experience the Sims’ Difference.

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Furniture Store 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

To our valued customers...

Thank you for your loyal support in selecting us GOLD for Best Furniture Store.

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

403-342-7467

2811 Bremner Ave. Red Deer

www.simsfurniture.com

36 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Attention to detail at heart of CanWest Travel’s success

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express Marking nearly 20 years of handling the travel needs of Central Albertans, the staff of CanWest Travel Company Inc. continues to offer top personalized service for dream vacations.

The business landed silver for Best Travel Agency in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

Richard Roth and his sister Joanne Walokoff co-own the business in downtown Red Deer. “We always knew that traveling is important,” said Roth, reflecting on the beginnings of the business.

That, combined with a personal passion for seeing the world, made establishing the business an absolutely ideal venture.

Meanwhile, one of the things that has contributed to the success of CanWest Travel is the emphasis on customer service. Some people decide to book and plan their trips online, but depending on the extensive knowledge and skills of Canwest staff has plenty of benefits.

People also sometimes think they are getting a deal online, but ultimately it’s all the same pricing, he said. Also, as people are exposed to more and more information about the endless travel possibilities that are out there, it only makes sense to come to

a professional and be guided through the process of mapping out a unique vacation experience.

“What we’ve been doing over the last couple of years is really developing a clientele that comes to us because they saw something on the Discovery Channel and they want to go and do it,” he explained. “It’s stuff you often won’t find in the brochures but you will find it as you are maybe looking through facebook or YouTube.”

Roth cites the current rafts of travel commercials on TV that point out the vibrant beauty of Newfoundland and Labrador.

“We have a client that basically is going to go and visit every single place that is shown in those advertisements. So we are doing up an itinerary for them, and that’s the kind of thing we’ve been working on – trips that are harder to find and can be difficult and time-consuming to put together.

“It’s personalized and it’s unique,” he said. “That’s what we do, and that’s what people appreciate.”

Also, the staff at CanWest can help clients avoid potential holiday pitfalls, as in ending up in a hotel that is not up to par or booking a ‘vacation experience’ that may be not even close to what the pictures and video build it up to be.

“We know who we are working with, and we know how to tell if they are legitimate or not.”

It makes for a continually fascinating learning experience for staff as well. “Our education helps us to better prepare our own clients and give them their experiences they are looking for.”

Of course, there are the classic vacations which staff are happy to help plan as well, with some of the favourite spots being Cuba, Mexico, Las Vegas, Disneyland and certainly European hotspots including Paris, London and Amsterdam to name but a few.

So whatever a person’s vaca-

S

This is a great honour and the recognition is truly appreciated.

Elsie Anctil & Mike Axworthy

ed Deer Best of R NER GOLD WIN

their favourite travel locations on the world map.

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

ed Deer Best of R INNER BRONZE W

July 15 - 19, 2015 Women’s Clothing s’

der 2015 Rea ards w Choice A

editor@reddeerexpress.com

TERRIFIC TRAVEL - From left Joanne Walokoff, Sabrina Sanford, Marilyn Rinas and Richard Roth show some of

“Your Fashion Destination” ince starting this new adventure in Sept of 2014, we would like to thank Red Deer and Central Alberta for your vote of confidence and support.

tions plans may involve, it’s again that personalized service and attention to detail that makes all the difference.

“People are looking for someone who is going to sit with them and hear their passion, and be able to translate that into reality.”

r - Women’s Formal Weaea ders’ 2015 R ards Choice Aw

Side Street Fashion & Accessories 3310 50 Ave, Sheraton Hotel Red Deer, AB T4N 3X9 B: 403.341-4343 | C: 403.391-8467 sidestreet@sidestreetfashion.com

www.sidestreetfashion.com

Red Deer Express 37

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

Trevor Aslin named Red Deer’s Best Corporate Citizen Sobeys South has also secured honour of being named Best Grocery Store

COMMUNITY-ORIENTED - Trevor and Petra Aslin, owners of Sobeys South, are celebrating their several Best of Red Deer awards.

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express

O

ne local business owner continues to make an impact in the community and this year he has been recognized for his efforts.

Trevor Aslin, owner of Sobeys South in Red Deer, has received gold for Best Corporate Citizen in this year’s Best of Red Deer. Sobeys South also won gold for Best Customer Service/Friendliest Staff for the second year in a row and gold for Best Grocery Store for the sixth consecutive year.

“I’m humbled, amazed and grateful,” said Aslin, about his honour for Best Corporate Citizen. “I’m the guy who gets to get my picture taken and I’m the guy who gets to answer questions, but really it’s created by the environment that I am in and that is because of my staff. They are the ones picking the orders, they are the ones that are organizing donations for groups. I have tons of support.”

Aslin teamed up with local mom Nicki Monilaws after he was approached by her

about helping out with the breakfast program at West Park Elementary School.

“She contacted me via Twitter and asked if we could help out with her daughter’s school breakfast program,” he said. “The philanthropy of this business is often received, not thrown out. People come looking when they need some help.

“We also support Dale Devereaux in his turkey drive every year as well. We’ve been involved with Dale for at least seven years in his massive donation to the food bank.

“You look at what Nicki did and what Dale did by coming to me – it makes me look really good, but it was them.”

Sobeys South also supports the Canadian Paraplegic Association’s annual golf tournament and provides breakfast, on hole sponsorships with food and also insures two $5,000 hole in one prizes for them.

Behind the cashiers in Sobeys is a wall full of hundreds of thank you cards and letters from the various groups, individuals and organizations who Aslin has contributed to – a testament to his commit-

ment to the community.

“We just had a lacrosse tournament in Red Deer and they needed bottled water, so we donated 500 bottled waters. We’ve also supported the Red Deer Freestyle Ski group and supported a kind of breakfast program for them with candies for the coaches on the hill,” he said. “It’s not really one big thing – it’s a lot of little things more than anything.”

Aslin and his wife Petra also supply schools with food hampers at Christmastime for City students as well as support the Festival of Trees every year.

Meanwhile, for the awards for Best Grocery Store and Best Customer Service/ Friendliest Staff, Trevor said both awards are an honour.

“When you walk into our store, it has a really great feel. And really truly, it is a bottom up feel. Our staff are amazing,” he said.

In terms of winning Best Customer Service/Friendliest Staff, Trevor said they have celebrated that win with their staff.

“We have a staff appreciation day once a

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

week and we are going to extend that program for another year. We also gave them all gift cards last year and this year we are going to do something similar,” he said.

“This is their second year in a row – it is amazing and we want to reward our staff.”

Trevor added one of the biggest draws to Sobeys South is the extensive ‘grab and go’ section of ready-made salads, fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, appetizers and more.

“Every day I walk in and look at that section and I think to myself, we do make it easier for people to eat better. It is convenient, the selection is awesome, it is always full and the quality is amazing.”

Trevor said the selection of their glutenfree section is also something that sets Sobeys South apart from other grocery stores in the City.

Ultimately, Trevor said he and Petra enjoy being part of the Red Deer community and always strive to give what they can to make it even better.

“We are thrilled and it means we’re doing something right,” said Petra. efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

38 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Precision Cycle Works knows precisely what works

BY KALISHA MENDONSA Red Deer Express Owner John Ferguson of Precision Cycle Works knows what is working for his customers and has received a silver award for Best Motorcycle/Powersports in this year’s Best of Red Deer.

Ferguson and his team bring many years of experience and knowledge to the table. He has worked with motorcycles his whole life, is a certified motorcycle safety inspector, certified motorcycle instructor and is a journeyman mechanic.

Precision Cycle Works services and inspects powersport vehicles from motorcycles to dirt bikes and snowmobiles. Since 1987 they have been Central Alberta’s exclusive Kawasaki motorcycle dealer.

“Motorcycles are my passion – it’s the old antique motorcycles that I really like. That’s what keeps me into it, but I am getting close to retirement. Within the next year or two I’m hoping to retire,” Ferguson said.

“I’ve always found that Red Deer has been central to what I want. For a motorcyclist, you go hours riding on either side of the City and the scenery changes. You go out west and you go out to the mountains.

You go out east and you get prai-

ries and the foothills. Red Deer’s a pretty centralized spot.”

He is grateful for his location in Central Alberta, and the easily accessible shop in Gasoline Alley. As well, Ferguson was grateful for the recognition from the citizens of Red Deer, and is pleased to have the long-term customers he has.

Ferguson recognized the efforts of his staff and said they are also very knowledgeable. He said there are veteran employees who have indepth experience, but also younger staff willing to find the answers for customers.

“If I had to use one word to guess why we got this award, I’d say knowledge,” he said. “I think a lot of people come to us because they know that we’re fairly knowledgeable in the bike industry and have been around for awhile. We do have young and new staff that may not know, but there are a few of here who’ve been here long-term and probably have the answers.”

He added that thanks to this long-standing industry experience, he and his team are able to service virtually any brand of powersport vehicle. Although Ferguson is considering retiring in years to come, he said he plans to remain in Red Deer and keep an eye on the industry that he’s dedicated his life to.

DEDICATED - John Ferguson of Precision Cycle Works enjoys being a part of the local industry.

kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

Kalisha Mendonsa/Red Deer Express

Thank you for your vote of

confidence again this year and for this gold award.

“People You Can Count On” Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Thank you to all of our customers for your continued support!

Farm Implement Dealer 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

Thank you Red Deer and Community!

Strive Dance Academy provides instruction in dance excellence to dedicated students in a supportive community environment. We are a parent-run, non-profit organization committed to providing the highest quality dance Best of Red Deer instruction in Central Alberta.

BRONZE WINNER

Dance Studio 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

Central Alberta’s Leader in Dance Education!

www.strivedanceacademy.ca

Red Deer Express 39

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

GLORIOUS GREENS - Balmoral Golf Course was awarded silver for Best Golf Course. Duncan Heaton took to the course recently where he plays often.

R

How

Jenna Swan/Red Deer Express

efreshing...

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40 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

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 of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Best Gas Station

Best Gardening Centre

Best Liquor Store

Grocery Store

2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

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

MEMBERSHIP BENEFIT E M I T E F S LI 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.

JUST UNDER $4.3 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 2014.

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

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

Red Deer Express 41

Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

Holiday Inn & Suites offers above-average accommodation Local establishment takes silver in this year’s Best of Red Deer

BY KALISHA MENDONSA Red Deer Express Located conveniently in Gasoline Alley, Holiday Inn & Suites has earned a reputation as one of the best hotels in Red Deer with its excellent staff and service.

This year the hotel was recognized with a silver award in the Best Hotel/Motel category.

Owner Shazma Charania said a lot of the atmosphere begins with the corporate culture of a familyrun, local-to-Red Deer business.

“When we’re a family-run business and we’re involved in our hotels it is instrumental, in my opinion, to the culture because we’re not just employees of a company – they become your family,” she said. “When they work with you, they work with you not for you and they’re working for what they believe because of the culture we’ve created. You can feel that.

When there is customer service or there’s someone being served you can feel that shine through.”

As well, the constant growth of the company reminds staff the business is always looking to the future and to improve along the way.

“All of our team members know that we are a growing com-

pany and we like to see growth from within. I think that creates a culture where you’re always working for something better and you’re working hard because that hard work is recognized and it pays off. That helps us interact with our guests in a positive way,” Charania said.

The hotel is comprised of 114 guest rooms and has more than 10 room designs.

This translates into being able to adjust for a diverse crowd of guests and being able to address all of their needs.

“We know Red Deer is a place of business, so we have many corporate guests. We know people meet informally here, like families or friends, in a central point between Edmonton and Calgary.

We also know it is highly used for sporting events. Based on that, we created a room design so it would cater to the needs of all of these different situations,” she said.

An example of this is the ability of a stylish lounge area in a room to quickly transform into an extra pullout sleeping arrangement for team events and families with children.

The main floor of the hotel boasts amenities such as a swimming pool, waterslide, whirl-

SWEET SILVER - Owner Shazma Charania stands in the foyer of the Holiday Inn & Suites in Gasoline Alley. The hotel was awarded silver for Best Hotel/Motel. pool Jacuzzi and 24-hour fitness centre. There are 7,000 sq. ft. of banquet space and there are executive boardrooms. As well, the hotel houses the Boulevard Restaurant that is led by the capable hands of world-renowned Chef

Emmanuel David.

Boulevard Restaurant also brings their talented local culinary skills to events through their catering program. This is one of the many ways the Holiday Inn & Suites reaches out to the

Kalisha Mendonsa/Red Deer Express

community. The hotel is involved with a variety of local non-profit groups and is happy to take on the role of sponsor, volunteer and participant in events such as the Westerner Days Parade. kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

Best of Red Deer BRONZE WINNER

Electrical Company 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

Thank You Red Deer!

Studon is proud to be a part of this remarkable community and we are honored to accept this award from our neighbors here in Red Deer.

Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

4808 50 Ave. Red Deer, AB

403.343.8989

Tattoo 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards

We have grown with Red Deer over the past 20 years and look forward to the next 20 years.

studon.com

42 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

The Float Shack awarded silver for Best New Business

BY KALISHA MENDONSA Red Deer Express There are few places to go where one can tune out all distraction from sight, sound and activity but Red Deer has such a place – The Float Shack.

The Float Shack won silver for Best New Business by making an impression on the City after opening last July. Co-owners Lance Foss, Cole Stevens and Matthew Dahrouge came together to create an experience for people unlike anything else in Red Deer.

The product of this desire became The Float Shack. Customers are welcomed into a peaceful and comfortable space where they are invited to relax on the couches provided, grab a book or have a cup of tea before or after their float.

“How I explain floating is there is 1,000 pounds of Epsom salt saturated in 10 inches of skin-temperature water in a light-proof, sound-proof pod that allows you to float upon the surface like a cork. Essentially, all sensory input and gravity become eliminated

from the body – it should allow you to fall into one of the deepest states of relaxation,” Foss explained.

“You can’t see anything, hear anything, taste anything, or touch anything.

It’s an environment that can’t be found anywhere else.”

This complete lack of stimulation allows a person to sink into deep relaxation. Epsom salt is a naturally occurring mineral that aids the body in nerve and muscle relaxation and can help hydrate the body.

Float tanks are sanitized between each use and users are to shower prior to entering the tank to remove oils and dirt from the skin.

Private showers are available in the room, with clean linens, soaps, shampoos and conditioner. People are encouraged to use a face cloth to exfoliate their skin to allow for better magnesium absorption.

The rooms are private so users can leave the tank door open slightly or all the way or closed depending on their comfort.

“If you’re a new customer, usually what happens is

TRANQUIL - From left, co-owners Cole Stevens, Matthew Dahrouge and Lance Foss take a break during a busy day at their business, The Float Shack. we bring you back here and give you a run-through on how to have a good float.

Thank You Red Deer & Central Alberta!

A huge Thank You to my clients, co-workers, family & friends for this honorable award!

Kalisha Mendonsa/Red Deer Express

We explain the process behind it.

Then we give the rundown on what will happen and what to expect so people can get their best float experience,” said Stevens.

“Between every float, we filter the water through a particle filter and over a UV light.

“That UV light sends a kind of radiation through any microorganisms in the water, and the particle filter filters them out.

“We also sanitize the water with hydrogen peroxide and that acts like a healthier alternative to bleach. Alberta Health Services tests the water once a week.”

All three of the owners have backgrounds as mechanics but easily settled

into the business of relaxation. “It’s time to work out whatever I have going on. Sometimes it’s a place to get real rest when you can’t get it anywhere else.

It’s a place to get away from whatever else is going on and just work on me.

This job is a lot less stressful than my other job. It is the complete opposite – a change of gears, if you will.

I think that’s part of why we wanted to open a float centre. It’s still a way to make a living, but doing it in a healthier, less stressful manner and that’s something we feel good about everyday,” Stevens said while both Foss and Dahrouge agreed.

“The business doesn’t feel like a challenge at all.

I love coming here and seeing the people come in here, tell me their story, go through the experience and then come out with a smile on their face. That’s the best part of it. Also, meeting all of the other people in the community that support us and share their experiences with us is the best,” Dahrouge added.

“Floating is about your personal experience and it’s meant to get you away from any distractions and bring forth whatever you need. That could be selfreflection, stress management or relaxation or athletic recovery. It’s an experience for you that can affect your life and then the people around you.” kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

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Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

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Wednesday, June 24, 2015, Best of Red Deer 2015

The dedication at 4 Paws pays off with two awards

BY KALISHA MENDONSA Red Deer Express 4 Paws Dog Daycare has been graced with two awards this year, one gold for Best Pet Boarding/Daycare and a bronze for Best Pet Grooming.

Owned by father Norman and daughter Tara Palardy, the business focuses on attention to detail and comfort in the best interests of the dogs in care.

The daycare incorporates training and playtime, and also offers extended services like in-home check-ups on pups.

“The dogs are not just in a kennel, they are playing all day and go for multiple potty breaks after dinner.

We have someone on staff all-day and overnight who monitors the dogs to listen to squeaks and peeps and such.

“We have dogs that need medication and we have first-aid certified staff that can provide care at that level, or things like insulin injections. When an emergency happens – which doesn’t happen often – we are prepared to deal with

that quite quickly,” said Tara.

“We use scientific, humane methods of training with our dogs. We have certifications – we are the only absolutely certified daycare staff in town. It’s through a program called Knowing Dogs. Our staff continues their education through first aid, through seminars, volunteering with classes and those types of things.

“OUR STAFF IS DEDICATED TO OUR DOGS – THEY WOULD BEND OVER BACKWARDS FOR THEM.” TARA PALARDY “Our staff is dedicated to our dogs – they would bend over backwards for them.”

Services that are available at 4 Paws go beyond daycare and boarding. It also includes a certified grooming centre, training, owner education, temperament testing and even ear cleaning among many more.

Overnight, a staff member is onsite to address the

needs of any of the animals in care.

As well, the centre keeps a strict ratio of one trainer per 15 dogs, so that they are never overwhelmed and can still deliver great attention to all animals.

All members of staff are certified for animal daycare, as well as the grooming specialists who complete long-term education. All staff members are constantly participating in first-aid, education or training courses to remain up-to date and knowledgeable.

“Our groomer (and all staff) do safe-dog handling so if a dog is stressing out, we don’t force them through.

“We don’t yell, we don’t get mad, we stop and put them away and figure out what’s going on. If we need to, we’ll grab extra staff and work on what we can,” Tara said.

“We’re very aware of the dog’s comfort, as well as setting up for the groomers’ safety. Pushing dogs past their limits leads to bites. If the dog is indicating that they are stressed,

if the owner is there, they are welcome to join us while grooming or doing nails.”

For puppies that aren’t used to being groomed, 4 Paws offers a slow introduction program where the dogs are introduced to dif-

ferent aspects of grooming over three weeks, culminating in a full groom experience on the fourth week.

They use minimal fragrance shampoos to avoid animal discomfort, and will immediately halt a service or groom if the dog

is stressed. Everything 4 Paws does is rooted in giving the animal, as well as the owners, a great experience.

“We do as much as we can to help in as many ways as we can.” kmendonsa@reddeerexpress.com

LOTS OF LOVE - Several of the pups from 4 Paws Dog Daycare join staff from left, Amber Stuart, Alex Klepper, Kiara Walters and Caitlyn Abbott in the facility to celebrate two awards.

Kalisha Mendonsa/Red Deer Express

46 Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer 2015, Wednesday, June 24, 2015

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