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The

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of Red Deer

Readersâ€™ Choice Awards 2018

2 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

Best of Red Deer

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The results are in! u Accounting Firm First CGL Strategic Business & Tax Advisors Runner-up Pivotal LLP Chartered Professional Accountants Runner-up MNP LLP

u Art Gallery First A+ Art Gallery & Unique Collections Runner-up Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery Runner-up Sunworks

u Auto Body Shop First First Choice Collision Runner-up Western Collision Repairs (2006) Ltd. Runner-up Fix Auto

u Barber Shop First Tommy Gun’s Original Barbershop Runner-up Masterpiece Salon & Spa Inc. Runner-up ClassiCuts Oasis

u Car Wash First Jumbo Car Wash Runner-up Mudders Wash Runner-up Mr. Suds Inc

u Carpet Cleaning First Little Grimlin Carpet Care Runner-up Central Alberta Carpet Doctor Runner-up Mancuso Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

u Children’s Wear Store First Once Upon A Child Runner-up Old Navy Runner-up The Children’s Place

u Chiropractic Clinic First Hoffman Chiropractic & Wellness Centre Runner-up Family First Chiropractic & Wellness Runner-up Healthy Family Chiropractic

u Coffeehouse First Meeting Waters Coffee + Roastery Runner-up Alley Cat Cafe Runner-up Dose Coffee

u Consignment Shop First Second Chance Clothing & Home Décor Runner-up Plato’s Closet Runner-up Twice & Nice

u Cosmetic Dermatologist First Aesthetic Solutions Runner-up The Aurora Medical Laser & Vein Centre Runner-up Innovation Dermatology Runner-up Allure Laser Lounge & Spa

u Customer Service First West Country Pump and Filtration Ltd. Runner-up RT Heating and Air Conditioning Runner-up Herc’s Nutrition

u Dance Studio First Strive Dance Academy Runner-up Dance Magic Studio Runner-up Pound It Hip Hop Studio

u Day Spa First Black Rock Therapies Runner-up Safari Spa & Salon Runner-up Totally Refreshed Steam, Spa and Salon

u Daycare First BrightPath Eastview Runner-up Melody’s Little Ones Care Runner-up Mommy & Daddy Daycare Centre

u Dental Clinic First Appleway Dental Clinics Runner-up Whitehead Family Dental Runner-up Concept Dental

u Electrical Company First BW Electric Inc. Runner-up Cannon Electric Runner-up Red Deer Electric

u Esthetic/Nail Salon First Vanese Nail Salon Runner-up Masterpiece Salon & Spa Runner-up Lashing Out Luxury Lounge

u Eyewear Store First Consumer’s Optical Runner-up Costco Runner-up Eyewear Experts

u Farm Implement Dealer First Deermart Equipment Sales Ltd. Runner-up UFA Runner-up KeyAg Kubota

u Fast Food First Five Guys Runner-up Mucho Burito Runner-up Fatburger

u Financial Institution First Servus Credit Union Runner-up RBC Royal Bank Runner-up TD Canada Trust

u Fine Dining First Westlake Grill - Heritage Ranch Runner-up La Casa Pergola Runner-up Boulevard Restaurant & Lounge

u Fitness Centre/Gym First 360 Fitness Runner-up GoodLife Fitness Runner-up Motion Fitness

u Flooring Store First Red Deer Carpet One Floor & Home Runner-up Central Alberta Flooring Runner-up Flooring Superstore

u Flower Shop First Floral Expressions Runner-up Stems Flowers & Café Runner-up Grower Direct Runner-up Costco

u Festival Indoor/Outdoor First Westerner Days Runner-up CentreFest Runner-up Festival of Trees

u Formal Wear Store - Mens First Milano For Men Runner-up Moores Clothing Runner-up George Richards Big & Tall

u Formal Wear Store - Womens First Hudson’s Bay Runner-up Side Street Fashion Runner-up Your Wedding Place

u Funeral Services First Eventide Funeral Home Runner-up Parkland Funeral Home Runner-up Red Deer Funeral Home & Crematorium

u Furnace Cleaning First RT Heating & Air Conditioning Runner-up Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating Runner-up Will-Do Furnace & Chimney Cleaning

u Furniture Store First Sims Furniture Runner-up The Brick Runner-up Ashley HomeStore

u Gardening Centre First Parkland Nurseries & Garden Centre Runner-up Coal Trail Greenhouse Runner-up Blue Grass Nursery, Sod & Garden Centre

u Gas Station First Central Alberta Co-op Runner-up Costco Runner-up Fas Gas

u Golf Course First River Bend Golf & Recreation Area Runner-up Alberta Springs Golf Resort Runner-up Innisfail Golf Club

u Grocery Store First Save-On-Foods First Sobeys Runner-up Co-op Runner-up Real Canadian Superstore

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4 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

u Hair Salon First Masterpiece Salon & Spa Runner-up Safari Spa & Salon Runner-up Abbey Road Hair Studio

u Health Food Store First The Maple Tree Runner-up T’s Bakery Café Runner-up The Chopped Leaf

u Hearing Clinic First Riverland Hearing Clinic Runner-up A & E Hearing Care Runner-up Costco

u Home Builder First Laebon Homes Runner-up Alair Homes Runner-up True-Line Homes

u Home Building Centre First The Home Depot Runner-up Executive Home Building Centre Home Hardware Runner-up RONA

u Home Décor Store First HomeSense Runner-up Winners Runner-up Urban Barn

u Home Electronics Store First Best Buy Runner-up Choice Audio Video Runner-up Visions Electronics

u Hot Tub/Spa Retailer First Arctic Spas Runner-up Sun N Fun Pool & Spa Runner-up Dynasty Spas

u Hotel/Motel First Sheraton Red Deer Runner-up Radisson Hotel Runner-up Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Red Deer South

u Jewellery Store First Mitchell & Jewell Runner-up Clowes Jewellers Runner-up Peoples Runner-up Red Deer Goldsmiths

u Law Firm First Altalaw Runner-up Warren Sinclair Runner-up Johnston Ming Manning

u Lawn & Garden Equipment First The Home Depot Runner-up Canadian Tire Runner-up Peavey Mart

u Lingerie Store First The Bra Lounge Runner-up La Senza Runner-up La Vie en Rose

u Liquor Store First Liquor Depot Runner-up Co-op Liquor Runner-up Liquor Crossing

u Live Music First Bo’s Bar and Grill Runner-up The Hideout Runner-up The Vat

u Mall First Bower Place Shopping Centre Runner-Up Parkland Mall

u Men’s Clothing Store First Milano For Men Runner-up Marks Runner-up The Bay

u Mortgage Company First The Mortgage Group Runner-up Simply Mortgages Runner-up Dominion Lending Centres

u Motorcycle/Powersports Dealer First Turple Bros Runner-up Gasoline Alley Harley-Davidson Runner-up Red Deer Powersports Unlimited

u New Car Dealer First Southside Dodge Chrysler Jeep Runner-up Kipp Scott GMC Cadillac Buick Runner-up MGM Ford Lincoln Sales

u Night Club First Billy Bob’s Saloon Runner-up Bellinis Runner-up The Vat Pub

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u Oil/Lube Service First Jiffy Lube Runner-up Mr. Lube Runner-up AFR Autoworks

u Paint Store First Fargeys Decorating Centre Runner-up Cloverdale Paint Runner-up The Home Depot

u Pet Boarding/Daycare First Freedom House Runner-up Central Alberta Cattery Runner-up Piper Creek Pet Resort

u Pet Grooming Salon First PetSmart Grooming Runner-up Fetch Haus Runner-up Freedom House

u Pet Store First PetSmart Runner-up Tail Blazers Runner-up J & J Marine Life

u Pharmacy First Costco Runner-up Save-On-Foods Runner-up Mortar & Pesto Natural Pharmacy

u Picture Framing First Michaels Runner-up The Framing Nook Runner-up The Frame-It Store

u Place to Shoot Pool First The Corner Pocket Runner-up East 40th Pub Runner-up Murph’s Pub & Grill Runner-up The Vat Pub

u Plumbing Company First Fonda’s Plumbing & Heating Runner-up Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating Runner-up The Plumbineers Plumbing & Heating

u Pub Food First Bo’s Bar and Grill Runner-up Original Joe’s Restaurant & Bar Runner-up State & Main

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u Realtor

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u Supplement Store

First Wes Giesbrecht - Century 21 Runner-up Shilo Reardan Coldwell Banker Ontrack Realty Runner-up Andrew Russell & Associates

u Retirement Home First Victoria Park Runner-up Points West Living Runner-up Piper Creek

u RV Dealer First Go Uncle Ben’s RV & Marine Runner-up Woody’s RV World Runner-up Vellner Leisure Products

u RV Service/Repair First Go Uncle Ben’s RV & Marine Runner-up Red Deer RV Runner-up Western RV

u Shoe Store First Great Strides Fine Shoes First Shoe Warehouse Runner-up Sport Chek Runner-up The Bay

u Sporting Goods Store First Sport Chek Runner-up Wolverine Guns & Tackle Runner-up Canadian Tire

First Herc’s Nutrition Runner-up Bond Nutrition Runner-up Popeye’s Supplements

u Tailor/Alterations First Gloria’s Alterations Runner-up Magdy Beshay Tailor Shop Runner-up Classic Cleaners & Tailors

u Tanning Salon First Jacked Bronze & Beauty Runner-up Fabutan Runner-up Tropical Paradise Tanning Studio

u Tattoo Shop First Classic Tattoo Co. Runner-up Renaissance Tattoo & Body Piercing Runner-up Native Arts Tattoo & Piercing

u Tire Shop First Kal Tire Runner-up Fountain Tire Runner-up Don’s Tire & Auto Repair

u Travel Agency First AMA - Alberta Motor Association Runner-up Flight Centre Runner-up Marlin Travel

Wednesday, June 27, 2018 5

u Used Car Dealer First Southside Dodge Chrysler Jeep Runner-up Kipp Scott GMC Cadillac Buick Runner-up Red Deer Motors

u Vet Clinic First Dog + Cat Hospital Runner-up Cedarwood Veterinary Hospital Runner-up Piper Creek Veterinary Clinic

u Walk-in Clinic First Discovery Walk-In & Medical Clinic Runner-up Easthill Walk-In and Medical Clinic Runner-up Associate Medical Group

u Western Wear Store First Wei’s Western Wear Runner-up Lammle’s Western Wear & Tack Runner-up The Jones Boys Saddlery & Western Wear

u Women’s Clothing Store First Ricki’s Runner-up Second Chance Clothing & Home Décor Runner-up The Bay

u Yoga Studio First Breathing Room Yoga Studio & Café Runner-up YogaNation Runner-up Bikram Yoga Runner-up Studio Pilates

Cover photo by Carlie Connolly Bonnee Gregg and Krista Vandenbrink of Breathing Room Yoga Studio + Cafe strike a pose outside of their business.

GENEROUS WINNER - Winner of the $500 in Save-On-Foods gift cards Alex Floercke of Certa Property Inspections decided to donate that prize to The Mustard Seed. He is pictured here with Express Publisher Mary Kemmis.

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6 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

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Meeting Waters becoming the Red Deer meeting place By Todd colin Vaughan

Meeting Waters Coffee and Roastery is one of Red Deer’s newest java sensations after only being open for six months and now they have won the Gold Award for the Best of Red Deer’s Best Coffee Shop. “It is hard to find the appropriate words,” Dave Frotten, owner and manager of Meeting Waters Coffee and Roastery said. “I am so blown away. Red Deer has embraced us already and it has been amazing.” Frotten said the vision for Meeting Waters comes after years of his family, who mostly resides in Nova Scotia, wanting to open a business in Central Alberta. “My great-uncle was a lawyer here for 60 years,” Frotten said. “He essentially was my dad’s dad in a way and he always told him Red Deer is a great business community and a great community overall. “My dad’s passion was to bring something back to Red Deer eventually. He never knew what, but the family got into the coffee business. I was living up in Edmonton, they approached me and that is the whole reason we are here — that family connection.” The vision for Frotten was to create a place with good coffee, food and a place where they could host live music and events in a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere. “We really wanted this space to be about the people coming down here. The fact people have embraced us is a dream come true,” he said. Frotten is new to the coffee shop industry, but has had some guidance from his family out east. “My family has been doing the coffee thing out east for five years,” he said. “My sister in Nova Scotia is the brand master and created the brand Meeting Waters, which is named after Tatamagouche — a little village they lived in. It is named after a Mi’kmaq word meaning ‘meeting of the waters’.” Meeting Waters’ early success, according to Frotten, is entirely through word-of-mouth. “I am so grateful that people have been spreading the word for us. We haven’t done a ton of advertising and we have tried to let it naturally grow with people discovering us. The rate that people are showing up and enjoying it is amazing,” he said. Frotten believes Meeting Waters’ early success comes from the passion he, his family and his employees put into the business. “We are out here and people relate to the fact we operate as a family. All of our staff here is fantastic and we encourage a positive, friendly environment where we all get along and everyone is welcome. People see that and they get that this is our vibe,” he said. Another important aspect for Frotten is ensuring customers are not left out due to a lack of coffee expertise. “We do adhere to rules that make coffee better but we are not

trying to super niche our coffee market and make it only accessible to people who know everything about coffee,” he said. “I want people to come down, feel like we are approachable and maybe learn a couple things if they want.” Frotten is looking forward to the future of Meeting Waters — especially considering the development of Red Deer’s new Capstone at Riverlands project. “That is what drew me to this area and I think the whole idea they have over here fits very well with what we are trying to do. We have the space to accommodate people and we want to be in the centre

of that feeling here in Red Deer,” he said. Frotten hopes the new focus on local business and product continues in Red Deer. Being nominated and voted by Red Deerians is something that Frotten is very grateful for. “You can’t ask for anything better than people thinking of you off the top of their head,” he said. He added, “A huge thank you to Red Deer for being so great to us and we will continue to try to do the same for you.” todd.vaughan@reddeerexpress.com

GATHERING PLACE - Dave Frotten stands in front of Meeting Waters Coffee and Roastery, which won Gold for Best Coffee Shop. Todd Colin Vaughan/Red Deer Express

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Giving things a second chance at Second Chance Clothing & Home Decor

JUST BROWSING - Pam Bolton checks out a shirt with Debbie Gagne of Second Chance Clothing & Home Decor. Carlie Connolly/Red Deer Express

Wednesday, June 27, 2018 7

skills are second to none,” said Debbie, adding that all of the advertising they’ve Giving things a second chance is what done is just by word-of-mouth and it’s all about at Second Chance Clothing Facebook. & Home Decor, the gold winner for Best Starting out with Debbie’s own inConsignment Store for this year’s Best ventory and around two other people, of Red Deer awards. Second Chance now holds clothes from The idea was started by Debbie Gagne, over 500 different consigners. who manages the store and it was her “We’ve got consigners as far as Golden, daughter Rachelle who helped really B.C., Edmonton, Calgary and Airdrie. make it happen. We’ve got lots from Rocky Mountain “I’ve been collecting clothes forever House and the surrounding area, most and I’m a big shopper of sales, thrift obviously from Red Deer, Blackfalds and stores and consignInnisfail.” ment,” she said, adding The shop offers dif“I’ve been that she’s been doing ferent clothes, belts, collecting clothes that for over 30 years. jewellery and of course, forever and I’m “I was doing it when it home decor with varya big shopper of wasn’t cool to do it.” ing prices. sales, thrift stores “I’m not a label snob. She added that she and consignment. likes giving things a We have from ages eight I was doing it second chance, hence to 98 that shop in here,” the name of the shop. said Debbie, adding that when it wasn’t Her daughter Rachelle she also wants those on cool to do it.” told her mom she was a limited incomes to be Debbie Gagne hoarder and encouraged able to shop at Second her to open the store. Chance. Debbie said that over the past couple Fast forward to November of 2016, Debbie decided her daughter was right of years, the shop has basically become a community centre. and opened up the shop. And so, it was her daughter who manThe chair beside the cash register usuaged the social media and her dad Mike ally has someone planted in it. who helped with the opening of the store, And while Debbie is on her own, she’s while Debbie helped manage it. had many come forward to offer her a It was just recently that Rachelle de- helping hand. cided it wasn’t the direction she wanted “In here when you come in and I know to go, so she passed along the shop to you, you’re probably going to get a hug dad Mike, who has now taken it over. coming in and a hug going out.” “I give her a lot of the credit for where She’s also always got some coffee or we’re at right now because her marketing tea ready. By Carlie Connolly

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A+ Art Gallery Unique Collections lands gold for Best Gallery a gallery. “My mom was the one who spearheaded all of this,” he explained. “We were talking once about art and everything that I did, and I made a comment that maybe it was time to open up a gallery or something like that for the community. She said, ‘Well, do the art gallery - it’s always been your passion’. “She also told me to treat my artists like family - and the same for every customer. To greet them, and to let them explore what we have. It’s not about trying to make a sale; it’s about teaching the people that come in that art is universal.” There is something particularly warm and inviting about the gallery - it’s bright, colourful and packed with all kinds of fascinating pieces of art. There is also an accessibility to the place, made clearer by the learning space which welcomes anyone of pretty much any age group in a range of class and workshop opportunities. “I’m so blessed to have the opportunity to have this much artwork around me everyday. I think that’s why our gallery has more heart. “This isn’t work - this is a pleasure. I also get to meet these artists, and these up-and-coming artists who have so much talent. Huyzer also sees art as something of a powerful connector amongst people and as something that can also bring a kind of healing, too. “When my mom did pass away, art was my outlet and I’m thankful for that,” he said, adding that he hopes when people come in they also sense that feeling of the power of art to heal and provide a supportive circle. “We have free coffee, we have bottled water, we have munchies,” he said, adding that several employees of nearby downtown businesses often pop in over the lunch hour to have a break and just relax. “People just like the atmosphere and it changes weekly. “I’m redefining what a gallery should be,” he said, adding that the gallery is about endless knowledge, creativity and having fun. “And when I’m looking around and seeing all of this, I’m humbled to have everyone come in and enjoy a different feel for what a gallery is.” Find them on Facebook at ‘A+ Gallery & Unique Collections’.

By Mark Weber

CELEBRATING ART - Michael Huyzer, owner of A+ Art Gallery & Unique Collections, stand in one of the exhibit areas of the downtown location. The Gallery landed gold in this year’s Best of Red Deer. Mark Weber/Red Deer Express

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for voting keyag kubota among the best in Farm Implement Dealers in the area and for supporting us in Red Deer since 1981. Staff and management of keyag kubota

Redefining the notion of what a gallery consists of is part of the mission of Red Deer’s A+ Art Gallery & Unique Collections. The downtown gallery, which opened in late 2016, landed gold in the Best Art Gallery in this year’s Best of Red Deer. “We are a different type of gallery,” explained owner Michael Huyzer, who also teaches at A+ and is a gifted artist in his own right. Twenty-five Red Deer and Central Alberta artists have their work represented at the Gallery, and there is a compelling array of genres, styles and media to peruse. “They all have a story - everyone that comes here,” he said, adding that he really wanted a place for local artists to showcase their works. “It’s all community-based. We have a great community of clients, people coming in. And our art classes are run by the artists. “They all get a chance to do their own workshop and teach their styles. So that’s a different kind of cultural thing for the community to come in and try. We’ve been really enjoying that aspect - showcasing these artists. “We also have up-and-coming artists,” he said, pointing out that sometimes it’s a challenge for emerging artists to find places to display their works. “There are those ones who are diamonds in the rough - you can see their careers taking off. I get to witness that and help mentor them.” Artists who take part in the free mentorship program bring in their own pieces of work and they meet with Huyzer and other artists to chat, brainstorm, learn and inspire each other to greater heights of creativity. “We have children’s classes, too. We call them ‘young Picassos’, he added with a laugh. “The thing about those classes too is that the children and their parents are creating something together. At the end of the workshop, they’ve made something special between them. “And our adult classes - well, we have way too much fun!” A+ Gallery & Unique Collections is named in honour of Huyzer’s late mother Antonia Huyzer, who he said was always a tremendous supporter of him and his work, and of his dream to launch

mark.weber@reddeerexpress.com

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The Dog + Cat Hospital Ltd. takes Gold in Best of Red Deer TOP SPOT - Dr. Kristi Volk and her husband Shea Volk own both City locations of the Dog + Cat Hospital, which won Gold in this year’s Best of Red Deer. Mark Weber/Red Deer Express By Mark Weber

Offering local dog and cat owners the finest in modern medicine and treatment, the Dog + Cat Hospital has landed Gold in this year’s Best of Red Deer. With locations on both the East Hill and in Clearview, the mission is all about putting clients first through exceptional customer service and attention. And with their mission being, “To promote wellness and offer health care for pets by providing exceptional service and education to those who love them,” it’s not surprising the hospital landed gold in this year’s Best of Red Deer. Services run the gamut from preventive care for all life stages (puppy/kitten, adult and mature) including vaccinations and spay/neuter services,

nutritional and behavioral consultations and dentistry to ultrasound, therapy laser, general soft tissue and orthopedic surgery and cardiology services/consultations among others. There are also in-house labs, digital x-ray services and hospitalization facilities. “We opened the East Hill location in 2003,” said Dr. Kristi Volk, who co-owns the hospital along with her husband Shea Volk. The Clearview location opened in 2012. At the start, they had a staff of around three and today, there are about 20 employees between the two facilities - a testament to their continued growth in the community. “We try to be at the top of our game as far as the newest, most progressive medicines and in diagnostics,” said Kristi. “We pride ourselves on our technology and

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how that integrates into patient care and client interaction,” she said, adding that they also have two techs per veterinarian which bolsters patient care that much more. “We pride ourselves on exceptional customer service,” explained Shea. “We really try to make sure that the client experience could not be better. We do a different level of service, and that comes along with having the quantity and quality of staff,” he said, pointing out that continuing educational opportunities are consistently provided to staff members as well. “Those kinds of things are, I think, important for the client’s experience. “But also having beautiful, clean, welcoming and highly-technical facilities - these things have a high client correspondence, too.” They also offer a rewards program, where clients are rewarded for quality nutrition, for example. “Then they get money back towards veterinary services. So we try to run some unique programs that add to the entire experience for our customers.” Another unique certification aspect that some

staff have is what’s known as Fear Free certification. “It’s putting into practice certain ideas about dealing with dogs and cats to make this a fear free zone.” They utilize tools such as positive reinforcement/reward techniques to calming music that is specifically designed to help both soothe either dogs or cats. As Kristi pointed out, people may be reluctant to bring their pets for examination if the pet is really frightened. “It just makes it less stressful for everybody. We can deal with them in the least stressful way.” Ultimately, it’s all part of what Shea describes as a commitment to being on the cutting edge of veterinary medicine, “From the equipment we use to the technologies, software and practices that we use to the staff that we have. “We always try to be the best in the game,” he said. “I think that really separates us from some of the clinics in town, is what we try to provide in our levels of service and our levels of care – and having the combination of those two pieces at all times.” mark.weber@reddeerexpress.com

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Strive Dance Academy provides the foundations for all By Carlie Connolly

Strive Dance Academy is all about making sure dancers have a foundation first with their core program. Strive, which received Gold this year for Best Dance Studio, started off with a group of parents coming together to discuss the option of opening a competitive dance studio. And so, Strive Dance Academy Society was born in 2009, with the assistance of Judy Dorland, who was the artistic director for the first five years. Dorland still teaches at Strive, which is now going into its 10th season in September. The parent-owned and run studio is notfor-profit and sees many dancers of all ages and skills come out from across Central Alberta. “It’s a disciplined environment for competitive dancers, but we have a very high level of focus on the citizenship aspect, so getting our dancers out in the community,” said Hannah Peacock, artistic director at Strive. They even provide opportunities for dancers in the studio to assist and volunteer. “A lot of the artwork is done by the dancers,” said Peacock. “And also just trying to provide an environment where if we have dancers that want to go on and seek professional training that they have the building blocks to do that.”

That’s part of the reason why Strive has a core program, where dancers are required to take tap, jazz and ballet. In addition to that, Strive also has a strong focus on musical theatre, teaching dancers about Broadway, musical theatre shows and vocal training on top of their dance training. Other disciplines like hip hop, Acro, contemporary and lyrical are also offered, but dancers must take the core program first as competitive students. The competitive program at Strive tends to have two shows in Red Deer and two that are out of town. A big part of what makes Strive so unique is the cohesive team they have. “The teachers, we’re not in competition with each other at all. We are working for every student,” said Peacock. “We really do try to care for each individual.” The mandatory requirement of doing jazz, tap and ballet is another unique feature, as many other dance studios have that as an option but not as a mandatory requirement. “Our dancers are quite versatile that way because they’re required to do all of the disciplines.” The competitive program starts at age six and adults classes are also available for those interested.

Best of Red Deer Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER GOLD WINNER Best of Red Deer Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER GOLD WINNER

Best Home Builder

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2014 Readers’ Choice Awards

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STRIVING - Cian Januska, Masyn Griffiths and Hazel Stapley strike a pose at Strive Dance Academy. Carlie Connolly/Red Deer Express

THANK YOU RED DEER FOR VOTING FOR US 5 YEARS IN A ROW!

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GREAT STRIDES Great Strides Fine Shoes has won the Best of Red Deer Gold Award for Best Shoe Store. Todd Colin Vaughan/ Red Deer Express

By Todd Colin Vaughan

Great Strides Fine Shoes have walked their way into a Best of Red Deer Gold Award for Best Shoe Store. The award comes after 16 years of serving Red Deerians on Little Gaetz. “I think that is a terrific honour for us,” said Beverly Krausher, Great Strides Fine Shoes owner. “We are very appreciative of our customers in Central Alberta.” Krausher said the success of Great Strides can be attributed to customers being able to find footwear they would never otherwise find in the region. “We bring in a lot of lines from European companies,” she said. “People in Europe like to walk, but they also like to be comfortable and look good. That is what we have always focused on and I think people appreciate that they will see something different that they won’t see in six

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Great Strides Fine Shoes strides into gold

other stores.” Great Strides also prides itself on being able to find great shoes for a wide range of clientele. “I was just thinking about a family we had in on the weekend. We managed to find shoes for granddaughter, daughter and grandma. Everyone walked out the door happy,” she said, adding that they serve anywhere from ages 15 to over 85. Krausher believes customers continue to come back to Great Strides due in part to their customer service. “We are very committed and we are what is known as a sit-and-fit store,” she said. “We are very committed to finding the right shoe for everyone who walks in the door.” The right shoe often means helping customers who may have a variety of different foot shapes. “Maybe they have a wider foot, or bunions or foot issues — we work with those issues to find something that feels really good to them and looks really good to them,” she said.

In this way, Great Strides differentiates itself of this community. That is something we have from chain stores that often conform to an ‘av- been committed to from the get-go.” Great Strides, since 2002, has opened a store erage’ foot size. “We feel that everyone has to have good footwear in Lethbridge and has started doing seasonal and we want to make sure that anyone who may pop-up stores in Fort McMurray. have problems with their feet have a place they “There isn’t a lot of options for footwear up there can come to find something that and we wouldn’t go there if there looks nice and feels nice,” she said. was somewhere they could go for Krausher said the idea behind shoes. So now, we have a good “We are very Great Strides came over 16 years following up in Fort McMurray,” committed and we ago when she noticed that Red she said. are what is known Deerians would often have to Great Strides is also looking as a sit-and-fit travel to Calgary or Edmonton into making a streamlined online store. We are very to find proper footwear. service, however Krausher has committed to “We wanted to have a store that noticed a higher success rate with finding the right was local so people wouldn’t have people coming into the store. shoe for everyone “We have had people come in to go into one of the cities,” she who walks in said “We now have a good followwho have ordered and sent back the door.” ing from Calgary and Edmonton as many as 10 to 12 pairs, and Beverly Krausher as well because they like our then they come here and withbrands and they like what we in 20 minutes they are walking out the door with a really great are doing in terms of our service.” Great Strides also fits nicely on Little Gaetz, shoe,” she said. She added, “We are very, very happy we have which features a variety of different local businesses. been chosen for an award and that is a testimony “That is the atmosphere we try to promote,” to the work we have done here. We thank everyone she said. “We have been here for 16 years, we for their vote of confidence in Great Strides.” todd.vaughan@reddeerexpress.com support charities in town and we really are a part Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Tailor/alTeraTions 2017 Readers’ Choice Awards

Thank you to my loyal customers

Monday - Friday 9:30am to 7:00pm, Saturday 9:30am to 6:00 pm

Conveniently located in Bower Place Shopping Center by the Food Court

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Best of Red Deer

Wednesday, June 27, 2018 13

360 Fitness takes home Gold for Best Fitness Centre/Gym

WORK IT - Brent Weidner pushes a heavy tire outside of 360 Fitness. Carlie Connolly/Red Deer Express

THANK YOU RED DEER! ALSO A HUGE THANK YOU TO OUR STAff & CLiENTELE! We would not be here without you!

Your jeweller for every special occasion ...for every generation!

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Celebrating

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Best of Red Deer

14 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

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The Corner Pocket keeps the ball rolling for 17th year

POOL HALL - The Corner Pocket Manager Sean Wilson and Owner Lorne Brooks are looking to teach the next generation of pool players. Todd Colin Vaughan/Red Deer Express

By Todd colin Vaughan

The Corner Pocket continues to be the premier pool hall in Central Alberta and has now won the Best of Red Deer Best Place to Play Pool Award, a staggering 17 years in a row. “I appreciate all of our customers that vote for us. It is a prestigious thing, no doubt about it,” Lorne Brooks, owner/manager said. “I am proud of our pool hall and I think we have the best one in Western Canada.” The Corner Pocket is an expansive hall featuring 16 8’ tables and nine 9’ tables, along with four snooker tables. The hall also is completely licensed for family entertainment, meaning the whole family can come and enjoy the experience together. Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER

Top 3 Reader’s Choice Award 2018 Readers’ Choice Awards

“It is a really good social gathering place,” Brooks said. “When I first started The Corner Pocket, I wanted it to be the best we could do. We started with meager funds and we have grown leaps and bounds.” Sean Wilson, manager of marketing and promotions for The Corner Pocket, said they pride themselves on providing the best possible experience and equipment. “It is the best equipment you can find. You don’t find rag-tag — it is the best and well maintained,” Wilson said. “We are also changing our staff focus to increase the service experience. Hopefully people come back, tell their friends and bring their kids. “We want the new generation to come out and play this game we love so much. The idea is to

Thank You

Red Deer & Central Alberta!

Come see what makes Red Deer Remarkable!

instill passion in the youth and the existing client base. It is a fun, learning experience and we want it to be inclusive — it is everyone’s pool hall.” Creating a new generation of pool players is important for the pool hall — especially considering Alberta’s economy the last several years. “The last three years have been a struggle,” Brooks said. “That is basically the economy, so I expect to see the business grow. We are trying to do more food things and running a fair number of tournaments coming up. “We need people to come along and join our family of pool players.” That family includes some of the best pool players in Western Canada, and many of them have gone on to compete all over the world according to Brooks. Wilson added there are leagues, nights and tournaments for pool players of all skill levels. “He (Brooks) puts on a lot of tournaments for a lot of skill levels,” Wilson said. “We try to bring down the fear level, where people aren’t afraid to enter. “They will realize the Red Deer community is

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tight, open, knowledgeable and willing to share their knowledge.” Brooks also has run school programs for many years, with most Red Deer schools having come through the door at some point. “The kids come in and we only charge them $55 for the hour. It is not a money-maker for us but they are potential future customers,” Brooks said. Wilson added Brooks has continually tried to improve The Corner Pocket over the years to ensure customers are taken care of. “Lorne is always putting in the effort to make things better and that doesn’t happen everywhere you go,” he said. “Because we are family owned, there are people that Lorne has known for years. They become ingrained within our pool family and we want to make sure if something goes wrong — we have there backs. We are a very tight community.” He added the newest change will be a new food menu coming in Fall 2018. “We only see things getting better,” Wilson said. todd.vaughan@reddeerexpress.com

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Best of Red Deer

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Wednesday, June 27, 2018 15

Classic Tattoo takes home top honours

PLACE 4 INK - Classic Tattoo is once again the Best of Red Deer Gold Award winner for Best Tattoo Shop.

Todd Colin Vaughan/Red Deer Express

THANK YOU AGAIN RED DEER!

MILANO FOR MEN

Thank you for putting your trust in us and for your continued support!

We appreciate your business!

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Best of Red Deer

16 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

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Rusty Watson - Multi-Media Account Manager

es r p x E r e e D Red

! s k c i P f f a St

Favourite things: Family, friends and animals Favourite hobbies: Horseback riding, interior decorating and gardening Favourite foods: Southern BBQ, catfish, collard greens and cornbread

Mary Kemmis - Publisher Favourite thing to do Saturday morning: Wander the stalls at the Red Deer Farmer’s Market

Jamie Crandall Ad Control

Favourite guilty pleasure: The cheese scones at the Coconut Room

Favourite thing to do Fridays: Food Truck Friday, macaroons from Queen Bees

Favourite book I’m reading now: My Paris Kitchen by David Lebotvitz

Favourite thing to do Saturday morning: Buying veggies and treats from the Farmer’s Market Favourite nail tech, hair dresser: Cynder at Cynful Delights makes that happen for me

Dannell Hamilton Multi-Media Account Manager

Jess Crandall - Regional Creative Services Manager

Favourite tv show: Big Brother Favourite holiday: Halloween

Favourite thing to do in Red Deer on a hot summer day: Little Ice Cream and Soda Shoppe

Favourite way to spend a night out: Improv Comedy show

Favourite thing to do in the city: Walking trails, especially along the river and Bower Ponds Favourite food event: Red Deer Ribfest in August

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Wednesday, June 27, 2018 17

Emma Roe - Graphic Artist Favourite places in Red Deer - Bower Ponds and the downtown. “Red Deer reminds me of a bulldog, small body and yet a fiery attitude, which is perfect. We have almost everything you need from a large city and yet it still holds that small town charm.”

Nelson Bautista Graphic Artist Favourite event: Praise in the Park

Favourite thing to do in the winter months - Bull Skit Comedy, escape rooms and paint nights

Favourite restaurant: The Hideout Favourite treat: Chocolate milkshake at Burger Boy

Favourite thing about the city - “Red Deer feels like a true community, I realize not all of us know our neighbours like we did years ago. But I still get the sense that walking around this city you will be greeted by a friendly smile.”

Chelsie Johns Graphic Artist

Alex Streicher Graphic Artist

Favourite thing about the city: Its small town charm. “There are so many things to do in Red Deer with or without your family, outdoor or indoor.”

Favourite thing about the city: The trails and natural areas Favourite place to take lunch: The city parks

Favourite place to shop: Bower Place

Favourite places to eat: Small, local eateries

Favourite place to eat: Bo’s Bar & Grill for the live music, the food and the great hang outs

Thank Thank ou ou YY Red Red Deer Deer

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Best of Red Deer

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Westlake Grill delivers whole fine dining experience Todd Colin Vaughan

Westlake Grill is always looking to ‘wow’ their customers and this year they have won the Best of Red Deer Gold Award in Fine Dining. Ken MacAulay, director of operations, said the success of the restaurant stems from the vision of its owner Joel Martens. “When I came on, Joel showed me his vision in giving people an incredible experience — al-

FINE DINING - The entire staff at Westlake Grill is always looking to provide the whole package in fine dining. Todd Colin Vaughan/Red Deer Express

lowing people to have a fine-dining experience in a relaxed, beautiful setting,” MacAulay said. The experience they have created at Westlake includes ensuring that local products are included from the beginning to the end of the meal. “Being someone (Martens) who has lived in the community for so many years, he wanted to let people taste what the land has to offer,” MacAulay said. “When you are are having your vegetables — it is from the ground over by Alix.

Thank You Red Deer & Central Alberta voters & businesses for once again making our annual Best of Red Deer Readers’ Choice Awards a success! Your enthusiasm and continuing support make us proud to serve our local community and we thank you for supporting our local advertisers.

“A lot of people get to say, ‘This is the fruits of everyone’s labour around here’.” Martens said that local food can often be a significant cost, but it is crucial to the overall experience. “It can be a challenge competing in price. We have countered that by giving people an amazing experience. When they come out here, we seek to hear the word ‘amazing’. That is what we are after,” Martens said. Another crucial step in creating a once-in-alifetime experience is catering to the different groups that come in. To do this, Westlake Grill has separated out their group rooms and date rooms — along with also having the patio along the trails for a more casual experience. “The building is really conducive for that,” Martens said. “We have had weddings, the upstairs room has been kept for couples as much as we can and the main floor and patio is for lunches and groups. We have different rooms for different things and that seems to work well.” MacAulay said the focus on connection is something the entire staff takes great pride in. “The thing that always attracted me is that human connection part,” he said. “There is a sense of belonging and you walk away and feel like you are a part of that. “The staff loves seeing the connection with family. We get to see things like first dates and

see people connecting.” Martens added one of his favourite things to see at the restaurant is when people sit at their table long after their meal is finished — something that is made easier by the scenic views of Red Deer’s trail system and the 217 acres at Heritage Ranch. “It is an oasis in the middle of the busy,” MacAulay said. “We have had many people come in, sit out on the patio and say, ‘I feel like I am in Canmore’. You are 10 minutes from downtown but when you are here, you can hear the birds and you can walk the trails. When I drive in every morning, I go from the bustling traffic into this tranquil atmosphere.” He added they have really focused on creating a relaxed atmosphere within the fine-dining experience. “Being in this business for 30 years, I’ve seen that the good value is the whole package,” MacAulay said. “For us going ahead we are looking at the whole package and focusing in on the details,” he said. Martens added Westlake Grill will continue to add to the experience of Heritage Ranch. MacAulay added, “I wanted to say thank you to the people who voted for us and we look forward to serving you in the future. We will keep trying to wow you every time.” todd.vaughan@reddeerexpress.com

THANK YOU RED DEER FOR VOTING FOR US! "Riding with Red Deer since 1956" YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR NON-STOP FUN!!! Dannell Hamilton Multi-Media Account Manager

Rusty Watson

Multi-Media Account Manager

403.346.5238

Best of Red Deer

www.reddeerexpress.com

Wednesday, June 27, 2018 19

PetSmart is the place for pets

DOUBLE WHAMMY - PetSmart won the Best of Red Deer Gold Award for Best Pet Grooming Salon and Best Pet Store. Todd Colin Vaughan/Red Deer Express

•Dr. Greg Linnell •Dr. Craig Kosheluk • Dr. Mike Kosheluk #100, 166 Clearview Drive Red Deer County, AB Monday-Friday: 7:30am-5:30pm; Saturday: 8:30am-3pm

“From our family to yours, our sincerest thanks for voting Points West Living Red Deer one of the “Best for Retirement Living” in Red Deer”

The Doctors And Staff Wish To Thank All Our Clients For Their Support Over The Years. Meeting All Your Small Animal Needs

Pet Wellness • Diagnostics House Calls • Surgery Services Dental Care • Emergency Care

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Best of Red Deer

20 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

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The Maple Tree takes the top spot for Best Health Food By Mark Weber

The Maple Tree - which specializes in tasty, gluten-free goods of all kinds plus a whole lot more - landed Gold in this year’s Best of Red Deer. “We want to make food that tastes good to everyone - not just for those that have dietary restrictions,” explained Vanessa Darling, a former French immersion teacher who co-founded the business with her husband John Darling. “I used to be a school teacher and then I became a mom, so I was in between a maternity leave and going back to my work as a teacher,” she said. My husband was the one that suggested we open up The Maple Tree because I had discovered that I was Celiac, and I was already experimenting with baking and finding different ways of approaching food and developing all of these recipes.” They gave it more thought, and eventually opted to go for it. “We took the leap! I remember the day that I resigned from my teaching position was the day we actually found out that our lease was approved for this location. We signed the papers that same day,” she said, adding that The Maple Tree officially opened in September of 2015. Prior to that, they’d been attending the farmers’ market to help spread the word and get their name out there, so when the opening came about, there was a customer base already in place. “We’ve gotten to a point where I feel like we are quite well-known in Red Deer and have a good name for ourselves,” she said. “We’ve been really happy to provide Red Deer with this service, and we’ve loved what we are doing.” Meanwhile, there are some changes ahead for the thriving operation. As of June 22nd, they closed up shop at the Fairview location and are now operating as a ‘pop up’ shop at various locations across the City. The goods will be baked and prepared in a commercial kitchen, and they will also continue to supply current partners including Stella Bean Sweets, City Roast Cafe, Berries and Bowls,

Meeting Waters, The Stache, the Timber Coffee Company, Cafe Vero, After the Grind and Red Deer College with lots of delicious, fresh products. “We want to continue to supply them while doing our pop-up shops,” she said, adding that they will also be running a pre-ordered, pre-paid program with their customers, too. Social media will be key to spreading the word about where they will be set up on a given day as well. “We’ll be able to say, hey, we are at Stella Bean Sweets on Thursday between 4 and 7 p.m. - please come and pick up your orders, for example. And by doing this, we are hoping to then let our customers find out more about other local businesses in Red Deer to ‘support local’. Currently, according to the web site, Vanessa has more than 50 healthy, gluten-free recipes ranging from donuts to pizza crust. And the scope of what they provide has grown significantly over the years. Many of her recipes are not only gluten-free but also vegan, nut-free, dairy-free, egg-free and soy-free. “Baking with unrefined sugars, such as coconut sugar, maple syrup and honey and using healthy fats such as coconut oil, butter and olive oil, she is always working on new, great tasting, healthy, gluten-free recipes for you to try out.” “When we started off, our motto basically was that we wanted to be a dedicated, gluten-free facility. We wanted to be able to provide food that tasted good not only for those who had to be gluten-free, but for everybody. We wanted it to be enjoyable for everybody. “Then, we evolved as we went along because our customers were coming in with different requests.” Folks started requesting particular foods due to a doctor’s list of dietary restrictions, and Darling said she and her staff do their best to fulfill those requirements. What they provide also works well for those on the Keto and Paleo diets, for example, which

focus on foods of higher fat levels and lower carbs. For Vanessa, running The Maple Tree has been a delight. And she’s excited about the future including the shift in how they will be serving the community. Wherever they sell from, the feedback she’s received from the get-go has always been encouraging. “Our customers have been so thankful that we

exist, and that we are able to provide them with food they can enjoy and that doesn’t make them sick. I want to thank our customers, because without them, this wouldn’t have happened. “They’ve allowed me to live my dream, and I’m so thankful for that. I truly am passionate about what I am doing.” mark.weber@reddeerexpress.com

TOP SPOT - Vanessa Darling, co-owner of The Maple Tree shows some of the delicious, glutenfree goods the business has available. The Maple Tree won Gold for Best Health Food in this year’s Best of Red Deer. Mark Weber/Red Deer Express

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Congratulations to all the winners of this year’s Best of Red Deer! Earl Dreeshen, MP

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Wednesday, June 27, 2018 21

Tommy Gun’s shoots for barbershop gold u o Y k n ! a k c Th o R u o Y u ! o r Y e ke ! k c TRheadnD o R u o Y ! r e Red De BEST HAIR - Tommy Gun’s Original Barber Shop in Bower Place won the Best of Red Deer Gold Award for Best Barbershop. Todd Colin Vaughan/Red Deer Express

Thank you for voting us best for Rv service repair and best Rv dealer!

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Best of Red Deer

22 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

FURRY FRIEND - Holley Redmond with her pooch Maggie likes Wyndwood Haven Bed and Biscuit for best pet care facility.

www.reddeerexpress.com

Red Deerians Pick Their

Michelle Falk/Red Deer Express

Faves!

Best pet care

By michelle falk

When it comes to doggy day care, Holley Redmond likes her pug Maggie to have the very best. When she’s going somewhere that her pooch can tag along, her top pick is Wyndwood Haven Bed and Biscuit. “I would say that Maggie and I really enjoy the

JUST RELAX - Naomi Kerchinsky enjoys Meeting Waters Coffee + Roastery as she finds the coffee to be very smooth.

Bed and Biscuit,” she said, adding that it’s on the way to Sylvan Lake for her stay. The high-end pet resort is a family-owned business that has been in operation for 16 years, offering holistic foods and caring for fur babies while their owners are away. “They really cater to smaller dogs and she gets a little doggy treat bag at the end.”

Michelle Falk/Red Deer Express

Best coffee spot

By michelle falk

DID YOU KNOW?

Naomi Kerchinsky likes going to Meeting Waters Coffee + Roastery as she finds the coffee to be very smooth. She also finds the service to be friendly and

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nice and likes the overall atmosphere. “I do a bit of freelance work, so I always like to look for places that I can come, sit down, have a coffee and also do a little bit of work. I find this place is great for both: good coffee and good atmosphere.”

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Best of Red Deer

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Wednesday, June 27, 2018 23

Red Deerians Pick Their

Faves!

By Michelle Falk

Most romantic spot

By Michelle Falk

For Sean and Michelle LaFrets, the best place for a special date is more than just a nice location, it has to mean something of special significance. Married for over a decade, the pair still gaze at each other like newlyweds. “Our most romantic place in Red Deer is probably the Bower Ponds bridge,” said Sean. “It’s

where we got married ten and a half years ago.” The couple chose to say their vows overlooking the park because it had been a meaningful place to them right from the beginning of their relationship. “One of our earlier dates was here. We went for a nice walk around the park.” Sean added that it seemed like a good place to have their ceremony, because it’s a place they liked and it’s easy to visit.

LOVEBIRDS - Sean and Michelle LaFrets enjoy Bower Ponds as a romantic place in Red Deer. Michelle Falk/Red Deer Express

Eventide Funeral Home by Arbor Memorial

Thank you Red Deer for voting us the Best in Funeral Services

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Best of Red Deer

24 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

www.reddeerexpress.com

Red Deerians Pick Their

Faves!

FAMILY TIME - Anna Reaney said that Bower Ponds is one of her favourite places to go with her kids. Michelle Falk/Red Deer Express

Best place to spend the day with kids By Michelle Falk

When spending the afternoon with her two sons, Anna Reaney said that Bower Ponds is at the top of her list because there are lots of

different things to do. “It’s our favourite place to take the kids.” She added that she and her boys enjoy all the different summer activities, concerts, fishing and the playground there.

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HANGING OUT - Tori Whitlaw enjoys time with friends at Heritage Lanes Bowling Alley. Michelle Falk/Red Deer Express

Best place to hang out with friends By Michelle Falk

Student at Red Deer College Tori Whitlaw, who isn’t originally from the city, likes to go to Heritage Lanes Bowling Alley. “There’s college night there, so it’s affordable

for a student.” Heritage Lanes has a variety of special promotional nights for many groups. Wednesdays are free for anyone with a college ID from 9 p.m. to close. “I like to go probably every two months or so. It’s a lot of fun!”

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Wednesday, June 27, 2018 25

Red Deerians Pick Their

Faves! Best ice cream By Michelle Falk

Sara Kelly said mint chocolate chip or tiger ice cream from The Little Ice Cream & Soda Shoppe were her top picks. “They’re really good.” Having ice cream at the shoppe is one of her regular summer traditions. “Usually it’s really busy during the summer so watch out for that, but it is one of the best places in Red Deer. It has a retro-vintage vibe, so it feels like a home.” As far as best spot at the shoppe to enjoy her cone, Kelly said it is a tough choice between the picnic tables outside or a diner-style table inside. She prefers to have her ice cream indoors because she really enjoys that vintage feel at the The Little Ice Cream & Soda Shoppe.

TASTY TREAT - Sara Kelly enjoys mint chocolate chip or tiger ice cream from The Little Ice Cream & Soda Shoppe. Michelle Falk/Red Deer Express

THANK YOU, RED DEER, THANK YO FOR VOTIN FOR VOTING FOR THANK RED DEER, THANKYOU, YOU, REDRONA! DEER,

Celebrate Canada Day at heritage Ranch!

Enjoy a Full Lobster Boil Dinner with all the fixings or choose between a Full Lobster or our Jack Daniels Steak. Reservations at 4pm, 5 pm, 6 pm, & 7 pm to book visit: http://rezgo.me/1q9uj or 403-347-4977

THANKTHANK YOU, RED THANK YOU, DEER, RED YOU, DEER, RED DECK DEER, • F FOR VOTING FOR RONA! FOR VOTING FOR RONA! THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR VOTING FOR FOR RONA! VOTING FOR RONA! FOR RONA! GARAGE

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You

Red Deer for voting us as one of the BEST OF RED DEER! We look forward to serving you brunch, lunch or dinner this summer on our picturesque patio overlooking the forest.

PICK A PACKAGE OR CREATE YOUR OWN.

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P: 403.347.4977 RED DEER I403-343-1764 2610 50th Avenue, 403-343-1764 • 7730Avenue Gaetz Avenue N, 403-342-5095 RED DEER I 2610 50th• www.heritageranch.ca Avenue, • 7730 Gaetz N, 403-342-5095

RED DEER I 2610 Avenue, RED DEER I 2610 • 7730 50thGaetz Avenue, Avenue 403-343-1764 N, 403-342-5095 773050th Gaetz Avenue N, 403-342-5095 RED DEER I• 2610 Avenue, 403-343-1764 • 7730 Gaet 6300 Cronquist Dr, Red Deer,50th AB T4N 7E8 403-343-1764

Best of Red Deer

26 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

www.reddeerexpress.com

Red Deerians Pick Their

Faves!

TATTED UP - The best local tattoo artist according to Tyler Olivier is Jake Lave. Michelle Falk/Red Deer Express

Best tattoo artist

By Michelle Falk

The best tattoo artist according to Tyler Olivier is Jake Lave. One of the more recent tattoos he did on Olivier was Leo, which is the horoscope of the time his daughter was born and the date she was born, and that’s her name. “My shoulders are wrapped around with roses and I have my shin down to my ankle done.” He also went in to get another one in honour of his son on his left leg.

“He’s one of the best top three and I don’t think I’ll ever go to anyone else.” For Cassie Swan, she goes to Electric City. “I used to get them done at Classic Tattoo. Both are great shops. I go to James Waldo at Electric City and he’s a great guy and tattoo artist so there are no complaints there.” She added that she gives him the theme and a couple of ideas, all free range and he works wonders. “I’m not picky as long as it looks great. He’s unreal.”

TOP PICKS - Cassie Swan, left, says her favourite place to get her tattoos done is Electric City. Rebecca Lawson enjoys her poutine from Red Deer’s Original Joes. Michelle Falk/Red Deer Express

Best poutine

By Michelle Falk

Rebecca Lawson says her favourite poutine in Red Deer is definitely Original Joes. “They also have very good fish and chips. Where I’m from on the East Coast they serve haddock,

Thank You Red Deer!

for voting for us 4 Years In A R ow! Freedom House Would Like to Thank all of our Amazing Clients for Voting for us for Red Deer’s BEST Dog Daycare & Boarding Facility! We are so proud to offer a place “Where Dogs Can Be Dogs”

Insert Red Deer Express Award Pic Here

“Where dogs can be dogs!”

so that’s my favourite to eat there as well.” She added that she also has tried the Bedford Food Company and said they had lots of different options for their poutine, like ketchup chips in the poutine or other different options, which she thought were cool.

Congratulations to the winners of this year’s Best of Red Deer Kim Schreiner

MLA Red Deer North 403-342-2263

Best of Red Deer

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Wednesday, June 27, 2018 27

Red Deerians Pick Their

Faves! Best pub By Michelle Falk

FAVE PUB - Rhys Stilling said he likes going to the Toad and Turtle as it has the best food and atmosphere.

Rhys Stilling said the Toad and Turtle has the best food and atmosphere. He added that everybody is super friendly there. “I usually go there for special occasions.”

Michelle Falk/Red Deer Express

Thank You Red Deer for your continued support! The staff at Jumbo Car wash appreciate your patronage!

Self Serve Wash Bays

Automatic Wash Bays

Thank you Red Deer for making us Smile!

59ft RV Drive-Thru Bays

We Make Washing Fun! #144 Clearmile Ave. (40th Ave. South) Red Deer County

403.343.6200 jumbocar wash.ca

OPEN DAILY • 7 AM TO 10 PM

4612 48 Ave, Red Deer (403) 343-8622

Best of Red Deer

28 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

Walking along one of Red Deer’s many trails

www.reddeerexpress.com

A NICE WALK - Many Red Deerians take advantage of the many walking trails at their lunch hour. Jess Crandall/Red Deer Express

Congratulations to the winners of this year’s Best of Red Deer Barb Miller, MLA Red Deer South 403-340-3565

n behalf of the team at Side Street Fashion, we would like to thank Red Deer and Central Alberta for your vote of confidence and support. It is alwas a great honour to be recognized...we are truly humbled. Elsie Anctil & Mike Axworthy

“Your Fashion Destination” Side Street Fashion & Accessories 3310 50 Ave, Sheraton Hotel Red Deer, AB T4N 3X9 403.341.4343 sidestreet@sidestreetfashion.com

www.sidestreetfashion.com

Keeping the vibrant city of Red Deer up-to-date with local news. The Red Deer Express cares about our city, our community and our people.

Thank you Red Deer!

Your premium used car dealer in Central Alberta for over 15 years.

403-347-7777

Red Deer Motors @reddeermotors

Best of Red Deer

www.reddeerexpress.com

Red Deer Express

Editorial Picks!

Carlie Connolly - Editor

Mark Weber - Senior Reporter

Favourite things to do on the weekend: Go shopping at Bower Place, hanging out with my fiancée, rodeos and exploring

Favourite Red Deer restaurant: The terrific Las Palmeras

Favourite lunch spot: The Quiznos on 22nd Street

Favourite thing about Red Deer: “Besides the fact it’s my hometown, our amazing, second-to-none trail system and the many fantastic parks and green spaces we have to enjoy

Favourite place to work out: Orange Theory Fitness

Favourite place to walk: Kerry Wood Nature Centre areas

Thank You Central Alberta

We are so proud you voted us as one of Red Deer’s Best Indoor/Outdoor Festival! Thank you to all of our volunteers, partners, guests and staff that support Central Alberta’s largest summer celebration. We look forward to seeing you at Westerner Days from July 18 - 22!

#WESTERNERDAYS

Wednesday, June 27, 2018 29

Todd Colin Vaughan Reporter Favourite place to listen to music: The Vat Favourite place to grab a drink: Troubled Monk Favourite thing to do on the weekend: Enjoy the city’s trail system

Family nd owned a d operate

Thank you Red Deer!

Building our community and supporting local. Serving Red Deer and Central Alberta since 1990. 3 Generations of carpet cleaners.

www.centralabcarpetdoctor.ca

403-342-1127

Best of Red Deer

30 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

www.reddeerexpress.com

Inclusivity is key at Breathing Room Yoga Studio + Cafe By Carlie Connolly

At Breathing Room Yoga Studio + Cafe, it’s more than just yoga. The Studio received Gold for Best Yoga Studio. The studio opened in September of 2011 by owners Bonnee Gregg and Krista Vandenbrink. The first class was jam-packed at 6 a.m. on a Monday. “We had done a lot of work leading up to Breathing Room to let the community know that we were here, that we were about to open up a yoga landscape that would change the way people, I think, perceived yoga and how people felt about yoga,” said Gregg. The studio offers a family-friendly, uplifting, casual and funky environment, with the doors open to everyone. “We have people of differing abilities,” said Vandenbrink. “We have people that are welcome here in wheelchairs or using mobility apparatuses. We have pregnant moms, we have people who are rehabilitating from injury or illness. We have guests that come who are recovering from cancer or being treated for cancer or other illnesses, so this is a place for everyone. “It’s about inclusivity and it’s about bringing a levity to the yoga landscape and people’s lives.” With around 12 instructors, Breathing Room has felt like family for many.

“The core group of our instructors have been with us since day one which is unheard of in the yoga industry,” said Vandenbrink. Something unique to the studio is that besides yoga, they are bringing together a community. “Sometimes it’s not even yoga, it’s a paint night where there’s wine. We do international yoga retreats, we do camps for mothers and daughters and our Dove self-esteem camps are coming up this summer,” said Gregg. “It’s going above and beyond the physical part of yoga. The Dove camps in particular are about self-acceptance and self-esteem, not just in our young girls and our teens, but in their moms. And that’s a big part of yoga, but so often I think in North America we focus a lot on the physical part of yoga and not the life lessons that it can teach us,” added Vandenbrink. When it comes to these ladies specifically, they’ve managed to keep yoga a big part of their lives. “Yoga has given me a handbook for life, self acceptance, curiosity, investigating myself and just being kind. I never knew how connected I could feel to myself and to my world prior to yoga,” said Gregg. Vandenbrink added that detachment is something she’s learned. “It’s a tough lesson that I’m still learning through yoga, to not attach yourself to, in the instance of yoga, the way a certain

pose looks. That carries over into every day life, detaching yourself from an outcome of something and trying to be present and trying to

be aware and allowing yourself to connect in different ways.” carlie.connolly@reddeerexpress.com

Thank You

Red Deer for your support over the last 40 years! You’re our favourite too.

5001 19 Street, Red Deer • (403)343-7711

BALANCE - Co-owners of the Breathing Room Yoga Studio + Cafe Bonnee Gregg and Krista Vandenbrink strike a pose outside of the Red Deer Studio. Carlie Connolly/Red Deer Express

Best of Red Deer

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Wednesday, June 27, 2018 31

This one’s for the people of Red Deer A message from the Editor By Carlie Connolly

For this year’s Best of Red Deer, we decided to do things a little differently. We decided we wanted to get to know the people in Red Deer and what they like most about the city they call home. The Best of Red Deer really is about the people of Red Deer. It’s about those passionate and driven people who go to work each day, doing what they love, it’s about the average citizen opening shop in the early morning so he can provide for his family, it’s about women entrepreneurs trying to bring the community together. The Best of Red Deer really is as it sounds … the ‘Best’ of Red Deer, whether that be the best coffee shop, the best place to get your nails done or the best fitness centre, it’s the opinions of our readers putting their thoughts together to vote for what they feel is best. It’s about people and it’s about building our community. We hit the streets this year to pick the brains of Red Deerians to see what they like on a range of topics including best coffee shop, most romantic spot, best place to go with the kids and best tattoo parlour to name a few. We also stayed right here at home in our own office at the Express, so that our readers can get to know us a bit better. We hope you enjoy reading about some of the finest services and organizations that Red Deer has to offer and maybe this will encourage you to try them out for yourself.

BEAUTIFUL BOWER- A group of paddle boaters enjoy the hot summer heat at Bower Ponds. File photo

a medical & aesthetic skin Care Centre, professionally supervised by: Dr. p Swarts, Dr. JS Badenhorst, Mark Jones (human Resources), Dr. Lize Jones, and Dr. hannes Conradie. We offer a complete array of services, performed by Medically Trained Staff and Certified Technicians.

thank you red deer! We are honoured to be voted in the Red Deer Express