Special Features - Prairie Living

Best Special Sections and Supplements Award

rairie PLiving The hearT of alberTa

at home with

Gord Bamford Summer 2019 vol. 1 ď Ž issue 4

inside

prairie fashion tasting room prairie Kitchen

Welcome to the GREAT GREAT INDOORS INDOORS

BOWERPLACE.COM BOWERPLACE.COM| | @BOWERPLACE @BOWERPLACE @SHOPBOWERPLACE @SHOPBOWERPLACE| | 4900 4900 MOLLY MOLLY BANISTER BANISTER DR,DR, RED RED DEER, DEER, ABAB| | 403.342.5240 403.342.5240

from the editor

content

elcome to our jam-packed summer edition of Prairie Living!

We gallop into this issue proud recipients of the Alberta Weekly Newspapers Association’s special publication of the year award. A great honour and a level of excellence we plan to continue.

It’s been such a fun ride meeting so many incredible people throughout Central Alberta who make this magazine what it is.

So, with that said, if you’ve got a cool recipe you’d like to share, or a cool country story, shoot us an email – we’d love to hear from you.

In this edition, you will find just a few examples of the people, places and businesses that make Alberta great.

04

A Chat with Gord Bamford

11

Prairie Tasting Room

18

Ciera Knight, Stories from Mount Everest

30

Strolling Memory Lane with Singer Troy Kokol

W

I hope you enjoy reading along, and we’d love to hear some feedback about what you think!

Carlie Connolly

prairielivingca7 @PrairieLivingCentralAlberta Editor

Carlie Connolly

art director/Designer

jessica crandall

contributing reports

Stephanie Rhodes • stephanie.rhodes@reddeeradvocate.com megan roth • megan/roth@sylvanlakenews.com

publisher

Mary Kemmis

• mary.kemmis@blackpress.ca

Advertising sales stephanie rhodes

shayne court

barb pettie Leah Bousfield kayla kobi

403-314-4357 403-314-4358 403-887-2331 403-843-4909 403-742-2395

limitations of liability Advertiser contracts to indemnify Black Press against any claim brought as a result of the placement of their advertisement, including an action in defamation. The Publisher reserves the right to charge the advertiser for any revisions to original copy, layout, artwork, photographs, or any other elements of the advertisement that were not included in the original instructions.

Omission and Error: The Publisher does not guarantee the insertion of any particular advertisement on a specified date, or at all, although every effort will be made to meet the wishes of the advertisers; further, the Publisher does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of an advertisement in which the error occurred. Black Press cannot be responsible for errors after publication of any advertisement. Notice of errors must be called to the attention of the advertising department immediately.

P rairie

Living

summer 2019

3

Gord Bamford stands behind his bar in the basement of his home on Buffalo Lake.

Photo by Carlie Connolly

Gord Bamford sits down to talk family, music and his foundation

H

BY CARLIE CONNOLLY

e may have won a slew of awards, but Alberta country artist Gord Bamford isn’t resting on his laurels or slowing his pace. In addition to a new album coming out soon and a thriving charitable foundation, Gord still finds time to coach girls softball with his wife Kendra.

Born in Australia, Gord Bamford moved to Alberta at an early age and he and his family, which includes three kids, now call Buffalo Lake home.

The country star has spent most of his life in Alberta, moving to Lacombe with his mother when he was very young.

“Mom and dad split up when I was five, hence, why the accent is gone,” said Bamford.

Bamford credits his mother for introducing him to Kendra, who was a massage therapist in Red Deer when they met.

“I went in for a few appointments, and got to know her, and just really liked her down-to-earth personality and who she was all about,” he said.

Bamford has now planted his roots with his family in Buffalo Lake, not far from where he grew up.

4

summer 2019

P rairie

Living

“We were always planning on coming back to Canada after a few years, and the opportunity came up to be here,” said Bamford, who has previously spent a lot of time in Nashville.

Country music has always been a part of Bamford’s life.

“I was introduced to country music before I could even walk. My dad is an Aussie and my mom was into the older country – the Merle Haggard, Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton stuff.”

He even grew up in the western lifestyle, living on a farm and having family who included ranchers and rodeo cowboys.

Despite not getting any earlier interest from record labels, in 2010, Bamford took everyone by storm, leaving other labels surprised, as he won country music awards and started to really be recognized for the work he did.

“All the labels were dumbfounded how this independent kid from Lacombe had won all these awards.

“It has just taken off. Sometimes, you’ve got to take a risk to have a reward.”

Something very close to his heart, besides his music, is his charity work through The Gord Bamford Foundation, a commitment Bamford says has been one of his biggest passions.

Gord Bamford and his wife Kendra walking on one of the trails near their home on Buffalo Lake.

Photo by Carlie Connolly

Since its inception, the foundation has raised more than $3.7 million for children’s charities such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, children’s hospitals and more.

“The greatest stuff we do is going into these children’s hospitals and interacting with the young kids who are sick and their families and to continue to give back that way.”

The big fundraiser for Bamford is the upcoming Charity Golf Classic Aug. 7 and 8 in Lacombe.

In their spare time, Bamford and his wife are heavily involved with their three kids, all of whom are into sports and music.

Their son Nash was recently drafted into the Western Hockey League with the Kamloops Blazers, while the other two split their time between dance, hockey, music and gymnastics.

“It’s nice to be able to raise them in an atmosphere like this, where they can have everything they need right here out on the lake, but at the same time, being involved in small community and surrounding themselves with good people,” said Bamford.

Both he and Kendra are heavily involved in sports and are currently coaches for the girls softball team in Bashaw. They also enjoy golfing, fishing and other outdoor adventures.

P rairie

Living

summer 2019

5

Bamford will be taking it easier this summer, with shows at the Calgary Stampede, Italy and other stops before the Country Music Awards in September.

Bamford is gearing up for the release of his album #REDNEK, set to come out soon.

The new album will have him touring for 18 months across Canada and into Australia and Europe.

“It’s the best music I’ve ever made coming out,” said Bamford.

6

summer 2019

P rairie

Living

ALL DAY BUFFET / 7 DAYS A WEEK

GOLDEN FORK AWARDS

GOLD

EN

AWAR FORK

GOLD

DS

EN FO RK

Dragon City Buffet

AWAR

chinese

h lunc

2018 Readers’ Choice Awards

ers’ Read 2018 e Awards Choic

buffe t

2018 Choic Readers ’ e Aw ards

403.340.3388 403.340.3332

Appetizers

Pork

1. Egg Roll 2. Spring Roll 3. Crispy Wonton (12) 4. Dry Garlic Spareribs 5. Fried Wonton Szechuan Style 6. Pork Dumplings (12) 7. Deep Fried Chicken Wings 8. BBQ Pork

38. Salt & Pepper Pork 39. Sweet & Sour Spareribs 40. Sweet & Sour Pork 41. Honey Garlic Spareribs 42. Diced Pork with Cashew Nuts 43. Palace Style Pork 44. Peking Sweet & Sour Spareribs

Chicken 14. Chicken with Black Bean Sauce 15. Lemon Chicken 16. Chicken Hot Pot (boneless) 17. Szechuan Chicken 18. Sweet & Sour Chicken Balls 19. Curry Chicken 20. Almond Guy Ding (stir fried) 21. Almond Soo Guy (deep fried) 22. Chicken with Cashew Nuts 23. Moo Goo Guy Pan 24. Palace Style Chicken 25. Ginger Chicken

Chow Mein (Noodles)

Beef 26. Beef Tenderloin with Black Bean Sauce 27. Special Beef Tenderloin 28. Beef with Broccoli 29. Beef with Green Peppers in Black Bean Sauce 30. Beef with Fresh Tomatoes 31. Beef with Snow Peas 32. Ginger Beef 33. Curry Beef 34. Beef with Satay Sauce 35. Szechuan Beef 36. Mushrooms with Beef Hot Pot 37. Beef Ginger Hot Pot

61. Chicken Chow Mein 62. Beef Chow Mein 63. B.B.Q Pork Chow Mein 64. Shrimp Chow Mein 65. Special Chow Mein 66. Vegetable Chow Mein 67. Seafood Chow Mein 68. Beef with Satay Sauce Chow Mein 69. Beef Chow Mein (Cantonese Style) 70. B.B.Q Pork Chow Mein (Cantonese Style) 71. Jumbo Prawn Chow Mein (Cantonese Style) 72. House Special Chow Mein (Cantonese Style)

Fried Rice

Located by Value Village

Chop Suey (Mixed Vegetables)

45. Deep Fried Shrimp 46. Shrimp in Black Bean Sauce 47. Shrimp with Cashew Nuts 48. Pan Fried Prawn 49. Palace Style Shrimp 50. Scallops in Black Bean Sauce 51. Salt & Pepper Squid 52. Shrimp with Snow Peas 53. Shrimp with Fresh Tomatoes 54. Curry Shrimp 55. Scallops with Snow Peas 56. Shrimp, Scallops & Squid with Mixed Vegetables 57. Seafood Tofu Hot Pot 58. Salt & Pepper Prawns 59. Szechuan Shrimp 60. Szechuan Scallops

9. Wor Wonton Soup (for 2) 10. Wonton Soup 11. Wor Mein Soup (for 2) 12. Chicken Noodle Soup 13. Hot & Sour Soup (for 2)

#157, 2325-50 Ave. Red Deer

74. Beef Fried Rice 75. B.B.Q Pork Fried Rice 76. Shrimp Fried Rice 77. House Special Fried Rice (Yang Chow) 78. Mushroom Fried Rice 79. Steamed Rice

Seafood

Soup

Cantonese & Szechuan Cuisine Fully Licensed

DS

80. Chicken Chop Suey 81. Beef Chop Suey 82. B.B.Q Pork Chop Suey 83. Shrimp Chop Suey 84. House Special Chop Suey 85. Scallop Chop Suey 86. Hot & Spicy Chop Suey 87. Stir Fry Chop Suey

Specials 88. Mussel in Black Bean Sauce 89. Teriyaki Wings 90. Honey Garlic Boneless Pork 91. Honey Garlic Chicken Wings

DIM SUM BUFFET!

Egg Foo Yong 92. Plain Egg Foo Yong 93. Chicken Egg Foo Yong 94. Beef Egg Foo Yong 95. B.B.Q Pork Egg Foo Yong 96. Shrimp Egg Foo Yong 97. Mushroom Egg Foo Yong 98. Oriental Special Egg Foo Yong

ALL DAY BUFFET 7 Days a Week

Rice Noodles 99. Beef Chow Mein with Soy Sauce 100. Beef Rice Noodle with Soy Sauce 101. Beef Rice Noodle with Black Bean Sauce 102. Singapore Vermicelli (Curry) 103. Hah Moon Vermicelli (sweet & sour) 104. Special Shanghai Noodle 105. Chicken Shanghai Noodle 106. Beef Shanghai Noodle Hot & Spicy

73. Chicken Fried Rice

Steamed Shrimp Dumplings (10) Steamed Pork Shaomai (10) Steamed Cuttlefish with Curry Sauce Chicken Feet with Black Bean Sauce Steamed Spareribs with Garlic Sauce Stuffed Sticky Rice wrapped in Lotus Leaf (4) Steamed Beef Tripe Chu Mao Sauce Steamed B.B.Q. Pork Buns (5) Beef Short Ribs with Black Pepper Sauce

HOURS: 11 am – 10 pm Everyday

DEBIT@YOUR DOOR

COMBINATION DISHES Dinner for Two

2 Egg Rolls Dry Garlic Spareribs Chicken Fried Rice Sweet & Sour Chicken Balls Beef Chop Suey Fortune Cookies

Dinner for Four

4 Egg Rolls Dry Garlic Spareribs Deep Fried Shrimp Beef with Broccoli Chicken Fried Rice Sweet & Sour Chicken Balls Sweet & Sour Pork Fortune Cookies

Dinner for Six

6 Egg Rolls Deep Fried Shrimp Ginger Beef Lemon Chicken Sweet & Sour Pork Beef with Broccoli House Special Fried Rice House Special Cantonese Chow Mein Fortune Cookies

FREE DELIVERY over $35 within City Limits 10% Off Pick Up Orders over $25 FREE Six Cans of Pepsi on Pickup or Delivery of $60 or more P rairie

Living

summer 2019

7

rairie P fashion Black top: Frank Lyman $119.99

Fashion model Hope Moline proved everyone wrong

B

story and photos

BY CARLIE CONNOLLY

lond, tall and willowy, model Hope Moline is turning heads in the fashion world.

Currently, Moline is finishing up school in a community service and addictions program, but she’s one busy lady.

The model and student is also operating her own eyelash business out of her house, called Dh_ artistry.

She’s been modelling since 2012, proving some doubters wrong.

“In the beginning I was told I could never model. I never had the look, I was never skinny enough, my forehead was too big. I ended up just doing it out of my own will and wanted to prove people wrong and here I am now,” she said.

She added that she’s even done a few magazine photo shoots and has modelled in Alberta and Winnipeg.

Moline’s favourite style is bohemian. She also loves braids for hairstyles.

She currently resides in Red Deer.

All clothing courtesy of Cheeky Coutures Boutique 8

summer 2019

P rairie

Living

Jeans: Joseph Ribkoff $187.99

Red hat: Walaroo $64.99

Necklace $39.99

Top: Frank Lyman $149.99

Dress: Frank Lyman $189.99

Hat: Walaroo $49.99.

Jeans: Joseph Ribkoff $187.99

Sandals: Miz Mooz $234.99

We

Denim

300, 80 Donlevy Ave, Red Deer Find us on Facebook

P rairie

Living

summer 2019

9

Lace shawl: Frank Lyman $129.99

Jumpsuit: Frank Lyman $198.99

Shoes: Dorking $179.99.

Nuts for Bolts etc.

Jackie Swainson 403.588.2445 1428 TWP RD. 381 Red Deer County, AB T4E 1W1

www.nutsforboltsetc.com | nutsforboltsetc@yahoo.ca 10

summer 2019

P rairie

Living

rairie P

tasting room old prairie sentinel distillery Lacombe, alberta

Stephanie and Mary’s excellent,

boozy adventure

Stephanie Rhodes - A West Coast import. Consultant at Red Deer Advocate. A pilot’s wife and a mother of one.

Music fanatic and creative weirdo. More Grigio than Granola.

I’m usually about the drinks.

We’re excited to introduce this new Prairie Living feature, not least because it’s giving us the chance to explore the amazing distilleries and craft breweries that are transforming Central Alberta into a mecca of smallbatch brewing and distilling. Connect with us on Facebook and Instragram!

We encourage you to support these local artisan businesses and share your experiences with us on our Facebook page.

Our first stop was at Old Prairie Sentinel Distillery, which describes itself as “a small-batch distillery in the heart of Alberta’s barley belt.”

They source their ingredients locally and the backbone of all their products is Alberta’s world-famous malted barley. Their whiskey in the barrels is sown, grown and harvested by horse-drawn equipment.

They have a fantastic little tasting room that is a great destination if you’ve got friends in town, or just want to try something new.

They also have a select menu of nibbles to complement their drink options.

We started our tasting with the least to most robust products.

Single Malt Premium Vodka

Stephanie: This vodka is made with the “Cadillac” of grains using Alberta’s world-renowned malted barley and it shows in its smooth delicious, light flavour.

It has a sweet smell and a toasty nutty aftertaste, which I loved. It’s eight times distilled and carbon polished, which Rob claims will lessen the hangover. I plan to put this theory to the test. This is appealing to me as a mom of a toddler who’s up at 6 a.m. It may end up in my stroller coffee cup holder. Loved it.

Mary Kemmis: A happy transplant to Central Alberta.

President of Black Press Media Prairie division, wife of one and mother of two. I’m usually about the food.

Mary: Premium Single Malt Vodka is meant to be sipped straight, over ice. Be sure to swirl your glass under your nose before your first sip. The aromas are sublime - sweet and floral, but not in a cloying way.

It also had a great toasted biscuit finish, courtesy of the malted barley base. I’d also use this in a vodka martini, where great vodka is essential.

Prairie Berry Dry Gin

Mary: It’s a good thing I took notes. At 40 per cent plus proof, my tolerance was sorely tested, but definitely not in a bad way.

The Prairie Berry Dry Gin was a great addition to our tasting experience. It’s made of 100 per cent locally sourced malted barley, which makes the finish to this unique sweet and dry gin something to be savoured. Lovely with a large cube of ice and a group of friends to enjoy it with.

Stephanie: I’m a gin girl, so I loved this one. The “berry” in the title threw me off at first, making me think it wouldn’t suit my dirty gin martini fetish, but it definitely does. It’s got a light essence of raspberry, Saskatoon berry and lemon peel. I can’t wait to add some olives to this one.

Barrel Spiced Distilled Gin

Mary: I didn’t adore the Barrel Spiced Distilled Gin. For me, the audacious notes of clove overwhelmed any nuances that might have been present.

But as our host Rob said, the spiced gin was made to be mixed. I liked it much better as the base for the Trappers Cabin Cocktail he mixed up. With the combination of cloves, maple syrup and orange bitters, it was a little like Christmas in my mouth, in a good way.

P rairie

Living

summer 2019

11

Stephanie: The aroma of this one took me back to a not-so-great scotch experience, so it threw me off a little. It’s strong. I think I grew some hair on my chest after the straight-up tasting.

A lot of oak and smoke. It’s made to be used in a cocktail and we tried the signature Trappers Cabin.

www.sylvanstarcheesefarm.ca

The orange, clove and candied ginger reminded me of the perfect holiday drink.

It also packs enough of a punch to be best paired with tolerating your creepy uncle and your sisters bratty kids.

Pickled Pepper Vodka

Mary: Loved the Pickled Pepper Flavoured Vodka (also just love saying pickled pepper flavoured vodka) Hands down my favourite.

I liked it so much, I bought a bottle to savour at home. I know it’s meant to be the base for caesars, but I thought it was a really great sipping vodka all on its own. Loved the way the flavours blended and how it just seemed to sing on my tongue.

Stephanie: This was a game changer for me. I’m a caesar drinker and very picky. When Rob claimed I could simply add Clamato to it, I was sceptical. However, I admit he was bang on. It was perfection.

At a $50 price point, if you use this as your camping Caesar base, you’re probably saving money, not to mention prep time. This vodka solved a problem I didn’t even know I had!

Butter Tart Liqueur

Treat Your www.sylvanstarcheesefarm.caGuests to Local Flavour - from our Store or at your Farmer’s Market

Sylvan Star Cheese

From Pasture to Plate. Quality Cheese.

39008 RR10 - Red Deer County | Mon.-Sat. 9-5

10 minutes West of Red Deer or 5 minutes East of Sylvan Lake, just off Hwy. 11A

403-340-1560 | www.sylvanstarcheesefarm.ca 12

summer 2019

P rairie

Living

Mary: One of my favourite treats is a butter tart, and they’ve recreated those flavours in their Raisin Tart Liquor. Notes of brown sugar, maple syrup and raisin mirror the syrupy deliciousness of this Canadian favourite.

Stephanie: Bye-bye Kahlua desserts. This was absolutely delicious. It would be great on ice cream. Just like Mom’s homemade butter tarts. Caramely goodness without the hassle of picking all the raisins out.

Sufferin Bastard Gin Cocktail

Stephanie: My absolute favourite and a great story behind this one. Ginger and lime were discovered in Cairo, Egypt, in the 1940s to be a hangover cure for British troops stationed there.

After training, they would hit the bar, and their troop leader couldn’t have them too hungover to get up for exercise. After trying fresh ginger and lime with little success, he mixed it with gin, and lo and behold, it worked.

This comes in a can, so it’s perfect for boating, backyard barbecues or beach days. I’ve already purchased some since.

Mary: After all that tasting, you might need a hangover cure, and gin, ginger and lime all combine to make this hair of the dog something to look forward to.

Make history with a wedding at

A

Historic Markerville by carlie connolly

wedding is a day to be remembered, so why not have it in a place that goes down in history in Central Alberta?

Walking through Historic Markerville, one can easily feel like they were put back in time.

Back in the late 1800s, Icelandic pioneers headed out from North Dakota, leaving due to drought and religious persecution.

“They sent out a scout and he ended up finding here, and said that it reminded him so much of Iceland, so 50 of them came up here and they settled,” said Brooke Henrikson, manager of Historic Markerville.

A year later, more and more started flooding in. In its heyday, they had about 100 pioneers, with the language being Icelandic, as that’s what most people were upon arriving.

Years later, a creamery was built in the hamlet, but it wasn’t very prosperous.

That’s when dairy commissioner C.P. Marker came in and a new and larger creamery was built.

Because of his involvement, the town changed its name to Markerville from Tindastoll, which is what it was called before the name change.

They later decided to build a community hall, so that everybody could be social.

Henrikson said the Icelanders were very literate, with all of the wives being very educated, knowing how to read and write well.

“After they socialized for a couple of years, they thought, ‘Well, maybe we should build a church and forgive our sins,’” she said, adding that the church was built a few years later.

Now that church sees many happy days as couples from across the province get married there.

“The best thing about it is it’s a historically designated church and hall, and the creamery is too, so it’s a provincial historic resource.

“They are totally restored and we have a campground across the way. We don’t operate it, but a lot of trailers come in and park for the weddings.”

The small hamlet also happens to home about 30 residents, who have beautiful gardens.

“There’s lots of beautiful areas here to have pictures taken. We also have an old bridge that’s one of two offset bridges in Alberta, so we’re pretty historic all the way around.”

Each facility – the hall and church – can hold 100 people.

The museum onsite opened May 11 and runs straight through until Labour Day. The church and hall is offered to those needing it year round.

There is also a coffee shop, which serves a light lunch, coffee, tea and desserts, along with some Icelandic specialties.

“Our biggest seller, of course, is ice cream. We’re known for the biggest scoops in central Alberta. I just can’t get those girls to go smaller,” said Henrikson with a laugh.

The church is open daily, allowing for people to go in and take a look, while the hall is mainly for rentals.

And the site isn’t just for weddings. Lots of family reunions take place there, too.

“We’re booked solid this summer for weekends, which is really good.”

Create memories that will last generations at our historic sites.

HISTORIC MARKERVILLE

Photos by Nicole Jensen

encompasses every aspect of a perfectly intimate wedding.

From the beautifully restored Markerville Church to the modern yet cozy Fensala hall, you and your guests are sure to remember this historic moment in your life and dance the night away.

Contact: 114 Creamery Way Markerville, Alberta, 403-728-3006, 1-877-728-3007

P rairie

Living

summer 2019

13

rairie P kitchen A home-cooked meal from Redtail Farms

T

story and photos BY CARLIE CONNOLLY

hird generation farmers Ian Griebel and Dana Blume are passionate about showcasing locally-grown food. Located three kilometres south of Castor on Redtail Farms, they’re firm believers that their attention to every aspect of their operation is the key to their success.

The couple’s ethical farm practices and well-thought-out feeding plans make them a sought-out supplier of pork and beef products for customers throughout Alberta.

Prairie Living caught up with the pair on their farm where they laid out a spread

14

summer 2019

P rairie

Living

using ingredients they’d grown themselves.

They chose to make a pork roast with fresh garden greens and their cilantro basil dressing, roast potatoes and kale chips.

“It’s showcasing Alberta food and also food that’s been grown a little bit differently. We’re really proud of how we produce food and the methods behind that,” said Griebel.

Griebel said when it comes to their pork, they raise their pigs on the farm, so they are fattened and finished on grass and are fed grain, as opposed to how things are done on feed lots.

prairie kitchen

“Depending on the year, we’ll actually plant and seed in a mix of different annual grasses, legumes and grains, and then we’ll graze them with that.

“And then the whole while, we’ll supplement them with homegrown chemical-free grain that we grow on the farm here,” he said.

“For a pig to rely just alone on grasses, they can’t do it, so they need a higher energy food supplement of some sort, so that’s why we give them grain as well.”

Griebel said they also keep their practices organic, with no chemicals added.

When it comes to the use of herbs, Griebel believes that some recipes really don’t need a whole lot of additional ingredients.

“I think if you have really good ingredients, that’s all you really need.”

The pork roast is flavoured using their homegrown garlic, minced up with salt and pepper for a rub.

Their fresh greens are straight out of the garden, while their potatoes are taken from storage in the winter.

“We’re actually using the last of our root cellar potatoes and we store them all winter. We’re just roasting them in beef tallow with fresh herbs, oregano, thyme and rosemary,” said Blume.

“We try to practice some permaculture out here,” added Griebel, pointing to the front of their home, where they keep the garden beds of vegetables used in their cooking. Permaculture is a set of design principles used to develop systems more in synch with nature.

“You can just walk by your door and grab what you need for supper,” he said, adding that they moved them there for the ease of harvesting and care.

The two sell beef and pork, with a lot of their meat products going to Calgary and Edmonton. People will also order a winter package to store a generous supply of meat throughout the winter months in their deep freezer.

At Redtail Farms, they are always looking to grow. They just planted 500 fruit trees and are even looking at having a butcher shop up and running next year.

For more information, visit www.redtailfarms.ca.

P rairie

Living

summer 2019

15

prairie kitchen

Pork Roast Ingredients Pork loin (approximately 4 lbs) Mix together: A few cloves of diced garlic A couple of tablespoons of olive olive oil Salt to taste Pepper taste

All amounts are approximate in the recipes below and are meant as a guideline so you can adjust for personal taste.

Instructions Let the roast sit out until it comes to room temperature. Rub on the garlic mixture and let it marinate at room temperature for about an hour.

Put the roast in a smoker, or barbecue with wood chips of your choice, and cook for about 2 hours at 350 degrees or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

roast potatoes

Ingredients 10 to 12 red skinned potatoes, chopped into a 1-inch dice 4-5 tbsp of rendered beef fat or tallow, melted Salt Pepper About a handful all together of: Chopped fresh oregano Chopped fresh thyme Chopped fresh rosemary

Instructions Drizzle beef tallow over the potatoes and mix the herbs with the potatoes until they are evenly combined. Bake at 350 degrees in an open roasting pan for between 20 and 30 minutes until the potatoes are cooked through and nicely browned.

Kale Chips Fresh Kale leaves Sesame oil to coat Salt Pepper

summer 2019

Ingredients Your choice of fresh greens Handful of fresh basil Handful of fresh cilantro Two garlic cloves, rough chopped 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp of honey

Instructions

Make sure the kale is as dry as possible and then massage in the sesame oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Bake at 350 degrees in an even layer on a baking sheet for 15 minutes or until crisp.

16

Green salad with cilantro basil dressing

P rairie

Living

Put your greens into a serving bowl. Mix the remainder of the ingredients with an immersion blender to make the dressing. Combine the dressing with the greens to taste just before serving.

july 5-14 Calgary Stampede Calgary calgarystampede.com

july 12-14 Buck Lake Stampede Buck Lake bucklakestampede.com july 17 The Dogpound Rodeo Dogpound fearodeo.com

Rodeo Roundup

j u see more on

l y

july 25-28 Bowden Bonanza Daze Bowden Bowdenagsociety.com

july 26-28 Rockyford Rodeo Rockyford Rockyford.ca

page 23

july 19-20 Carstairs Rodeo Carstairs cararodeo.com

Central Alberta’s Largest Summer Celebration!

July 17 - 21, 2019

july 27 Bowden Pro Rodeo Bowden rodeocanada.com

july 27 Lacombe Bull Riding Lacombe rodeosusa.com

Open daily in the Exhibition Hall during Westerner Days Tickets available at Westernerdays.ca

P rairie

Living

summer 2019

17

Undefeatable

Stories from Mount Everest - Ciera Knight

H

BY stephanie rhodes

er attempt to summit Mount Everest took strength, determination and nearly cost the adventurer her eyesight.

More than 60 million years old and rising 8,848 metres, Everest is not for the faint of spirit. And faint of spirit this central Albertan is not.

26-year-old Edson-native Ciera Knight began the twomonth trek on April 5, 2018, pushing her way up the Nepal side through fatigue, sub-zero temperatures and winds known to reach up to 322 km/h.

En route to base camp, also known as the Death Zone camp, Knight and other team members began by flying into a small town called Lukwa and hiked nine days from there.

Base camp sits at 5,364 metres.

“The reason why it takes so long, is because you have to acclimatize. So you get up to a certain point, and then you have to go back down and let your body adjust to the level you were just at. You repeat this process going a little higher each time.

“To get from base camp to the summit of Everest only takes about four days, but if you were just to do it straight, you would die. Your body wouldn’t be able to handle it. We call the acclimatization climbs “rotations.”

With more than 280 reported deaths on Everest since 1924, ghost stories are sure to weigh on a mountaineer’s tired mind.

18

summer 2019

P rairie

Living

“At a high altitude, your brain is messed up, there’s very little oxygen – you are not in a normal state of mind at all.”

Knight witnessed an occurrence with a team member, where a rock came down and hit the climber, smashing the top of his head, and throwing him off the wall.

While he survived, many do not, and she was reminded of this as she witnessed a body recovery during her travel up.

Thoughts of injury and death are normal, and she knew it was something to be prepared for before making the ascent.

“I had these talks with my family and my boyfriend, but I also promised I’d do everything I could to get off the mountain, and I did, because getting off the mountain was ridiculously hard.”

At altitudes that high, even the simplest of functions such as eating and laughing are exhausting.

“You would put a spoonful of food in your mouth and put your oxygen mask back on, because to chew food would take so much effort.

“We would make each other laugh just to bug each other, because to laugh took everything from you,” she said, adding that even walking 10 steps felt like running a kilometre.

On what is called Summit Day, Knight began her final ascent and made it to within 800 metres of the top, with her goal in view, before things started to go wrong.

“We were getting ready to start the final part of our summit push, and I got incredibly sick, incredibly fast.

It wasn’t altitude sickness, it was an eye infection.

“When you’re above 7,500 metres, your body is literally dying until you get below that again, even with the oxygen,” she recalled.

Every 30 minutes, her condition deteriorated, the infection in her eye worsening and spreading to her face.

“It completely blinded me in my left eye and was causing hallucinations as it progressed through my body. To this day, I’m still about 60 per cent blind in my left eye. The damage is permanent.”

Disapointed, but realistic about the severity of her condition, Knight had no choice but to be taken back down the mountain.

Descending the mountain was a challenge in itself and resulted in a five-day hospital stay for the young central Alberta climber.

Despite the adversity in her first attempt, Knight is already planning another challenge of the summit in April 2020. Woods Canada is supporting Knight by supplying clothing for the upcoming climb.

“I was right there and loved it. It was brutally hard. I want to finish. I was so, so close,” she says.

P rairie

Living

summer 2019

19

Burnt Lake Stables recognized for over 100 years of farming

T

story and photos BY CARLIE CONNOLLY

hird generation farmers Dave and Ramona Johanson are following in the footsteps of a family farming tradition that goes back 100 years.

The owners of Burnt Lake Stables joined an elite group of Alberta families when they were awarded the Alberta Century Farm and Ranch Award that recognizes farm families who have continuously owned and actively operated the same land for 100 years or more.

“We had to apply for it,” said Ramona. “That took a bit, because they had to go back through all the records.” While the record books state it was established in 1919, there are history books that state that it was established in 1909, although the official records couldn’t be located.

The land was originally farmed by Dave Johanson’s grandfather E.J. Johanson, who came over on a boat from Sweden and ended up settling a lot of land in Red Deer.

When he arrived, there were just five houses in Red Deer.

“This house was built the year Dave was born,” said Ramona of the home they now occupy. “He grew up here.”

Dave took over the farm from his father.

“There wasn’t enough land to really make a living off of, per se, as far as grain farming goes, so I densified part of it by putting a stable up, and now I grow hay to support the stable and sell some of it,” said Dave, adding that he’s been able to supply enough for the horses.

When his father took over the land from Dave’s grandfather, he had dairy cattle, chickens and pigs, but always had horses.

“He was one of the last guys that used horses for farming,” said Dave.

Having had three sisters who grew up riding and going to horse shows, horses really were in Dave’s blood. He and his father used to go around the mountains

20

summer 2019

P rairie

Living

on horseback to fish and explore.

“It’s not my hobby, it’s my livelihood,” said Dave about his passion for horses.

Having built many additions on the land, including a 200-by-80-foot heated indoor arena, they host the North American Dog Agility Trials.

“They come here twice a year and have been coming here for over 10 years,” said Dave.

“There’s dogs that even come from Manitoba, and a lot of them we recognize, because they continually come back,” added Ramona.

The farm also happens to be home to one of Central Alberta’s first indoor horse riding and boarding stables.

Burnt Lake Stables is situated in Red Deer County, along Highway 596.

Your Community, Your News for more than 112 years

Journalism matters Subscribe

99

¢

for only

for the first month

Offer valid on new digital subscriptions only. Some restrictions apply

Local news at your fingertips Subscribe: 403-314-4300 reddeeradvocate.com

P rairie

Living

summer 2019

21

Nice Horse

Four women and a wagon-load of passion

Photo by Travis Nesbitt

N

BY CARLIE CONNOLLY

ice Horse, an up-and-coming country music group, are bringing their high-energy live show to Red Deer’s Westerner days.

From their feminist anthem Mansplainin’ to party favourite Pony Up, these talented women have been raising the roof and doing country their way.

The group, self-described as bold, brilliant and badass women, includes Tara McLeod, Katie Rox, Krista Wodelet and Brandi Sidoryk. They live in different provinces, but they’re anchored together by their love of music and their Calgary jam space.

The women will be coming to Red Deer soon for Westerner Days, one of many big events they will be performing at this summer.

Prairie Living caught up with Rox to talk about the group’s upcoming plans and how it all began for them.

“I love Westerner Days. I went to college in Red Deer,” said singer Rox. “Brandi grew up in Rocky, so for her, Westerner Days was a really big thing.”

Originally from Airdrie, Rox said the forming of the empowering all-female band was a bit of an accident.

“We’ve been friends for a long time. Brandi and I go back a really long time as musical friends. We were both musicians just doing separate projects, but we met and just really hit it off and we were always there for each other,” said Rox. They all ended up taking a trip together to Hawaii and that’s where something magical happened – the idea to form a band.

“Brandi was like, ‘Why don’t you come to Hawaii and we could maybe just write some songs for fun?’ That was really how the band started.

“We didn’t have any intention of starting a band. We just had the intention of going and writing songs and having a good time together.”

As many opportunities flooded their way over the years, the band, which is one

22

summer 2019

P rairie

Living

of only a few self-contained, all-female groups, has proved they can rock and party just as hard as the guys.

Rox said that being one of the few female bands is not something they thought hard about when they started.

“We just realized it was what set us apart and we don’t have to say anything to make it clear that we stand up for women and women being able to do everything themselves, but it is nice to stand up for something and to inspire people.

“Nothing makes me feel prouder than when I see little girls dancing and jamming around being like, ‘We’re starting a band and we’re going to do this!’”

What makes Nice Horse unique is the variety of influences the women have.

“Krista and Tara will laugh at Brandi and I because when we go down to Nashville, there’s this radio station called Nash Icon and it plays all of the old country music from Sixties to early 2000s, and I don’t think there’s a song on there that Brandi and I don’t know because we both grew up very heavily with country music.”

The others are influenced by pop and classic rock.

“I think it’s really cool what it’s done for us. It’s created a hybrid that is still county, but it’s got these other influences to it that I think has given us the Nice Horse sound,” said Rox. People often wonder how they got their name. It came about through one of those funny stories.

“Krista had been watching a movie with Brandi’s dad one time quite a few years ago, and he kept trying to wake up her up and he kept being like, ‘Wake up! Look at that horse! That’s a nice horse,’ as they were watching The Man from Snowy River, so it was a title that we threw out as a band name.”

They also all happen to love horses.

The ladies have quite the busy summer coming up. Besides Westerner Days and many other fun summer festivals, they will be heading to Spain in August, which will mark their first international show.

Rodeo Roundup

aug 2-5 Strathmore Stampede Strathmore StrathmoreStampede.com

sept 13-14 Olds Bull Bash Olds rodeosusa.com

aug 16-17 Didsbury Rodeo Didsbury didsburyagsociety.org

aug 23-24 Okotoks Pro Rodeo Okotoks Okotoks Pro Rodeo.com

sept 27-29 Hanna Pro Rodeo Hanna Hanna.ca aug 31 - Sept 1 Cochrane Lions Rodeo Cochrane fearodeo.com

Oct 29-30 Canadian Finals Rodeo Red Deer cfrreddeer.com

A NATURAL WAY TO FIGHT HEADLICE

Ladibugs Hair Care began out of the need for two moms with children who contracted head lice at school to find a solution that eliminated toxic and potentially dangerous chemicals for the treatment of louses and their nits. As registered nurses, we put our heads together and decided to develop a plan and product line that effective, and also pesticide-free. As a result, we now offer our hair care line which includes not only products to eliminate head lice, but those that also prevent infestations include shampoo, conditioner, mint spray, and more! We understand that head lice are uncomfortable, cause itching and even pain, and prevent children and teens from returning to school until the infestation is gone. Our non chemical treatments are extremely effective, and perfect for those who desire a one-time solution. Over the decades, many lice have become immune to the ingredients and chemicals contained in drugstore and over the counter products - ingredients that may include harmful pesticides. Why take a risk? The natural ingredients that in our products are completely safe, however head louses find them offensive. Perfect for use in eliminating nits and helping prevent a re-infestation!

Affordable Hair Care for the Whole Family sharperimagehairdesign.ca

#4, 88 Howarth Street, Red Deer To Book An Appointment 403.341.3333 Walk-Ins Welcome.

Hours: Mon & Fri 9-6pm, Tues – 9-7pm, Wed and Thurs 9-9pm, Sat 8-4pm and Sun and Holidays closed

P rairie

Living

summer 2019

23

Prairie Farm Project

Farmers working together

O

story and photos BY CARLIE CONNOLLY

ver a year ago, a partnership of Alberta producers was formed, all with the same dedication in mind of providing ethically raised food to families.

It started out with a discussion between farm owners about their struggles.

“Marketing is a big struggle out here because we’re so far away so we started collaborating on how we could share the problem with marketing and the load,” said Dana Blume, co-owner of Redtail Farms in Castor with her husband Ian Griebel.

The Prairie Farm Project consists of a strong partnership between Redtail Farms, Lady’s Hat Farm and Lazy T Farm.

“If someone has to go to the city it’s not always the same farm going. We also do monthly work bees with each other so we’ll all go to each others’ farm each month or more to help each other out,” said Blume.

24

summer 2019

P rairie

Living

“It’s kind of one of the problems we’re seeing with agriculture right now – as farms are getting bigger and bigger they’re really moving away from that cooperative mentality that used to exist out here,” added Griebel.

“There used to be this real community spirit out here. People used to share equipment and farm together, because it was almost the only way to survive out here,” he said.

Some of the things they’ve taken on are long table dinners.

“We’ve done three in the last year and a half. We’ve partnered with chefs to come out to the community and they use all our products and they feature what we’re up to,” said Blume.

The dinners are open to the community and their customers.

“It helps us get some of our city customers out to see the farm. We also do a farm tour and the chef comes in and cooks a big feast and we’ll bring in local breweries. It really features Alberta’s food,” she added.

So far, the feedback they’ve had has been really positive.

“It’s starting to turn into more of a community thing. You have to drive hours to go for a decent eating experience,” said Griebel about the dinners.

He said one of the hopes is to bring that eating experience to the rural communities.

He added, “There’s not always a lot to do out here so it becomes a really fun night. We have live music, good drinks and great food.”

For more information on what The Prairie Farm Project is all about visit www.prairiefarmproject.ca.

5 rs 6y +

SERVING RED DEER & CENTRAL ALBERTA

2811 BREMNER AVE, RED DEER | SIMSFURNITURE.COM

SOFAS | SECTIONALS | BEDROOM & DINING ROOM SUITES | MATTRESSES | HOME ACCESSORIES

P rairie

Living

summer 2019

25

A chat with country radio personality

Suzy Burge

S

Catch all the action !

May - Sept 2019 www.caraceways.ca • Drag • Oval • Mud Bog • Motocross • Demo Derby

Hit us up

for summer speedway action!

Fun FOr EvEryOnE! www.caraceways.ca 26

summer 2019

P rairie

Living

story and photos BY CARLIE CONNOLLY

uzy Burge, host of Real Country 95.5 Middays, always knew she wanted a job in radio while volunteering with Rogers and Cogeco in Ontario. Her dreams were realized when she was picked up by a company called CHUM. “When CHUM was making changes, there was an opening for a weekend weather anchor.

“So, on a dare I went in. Really, I wanted a tour of the station to see what it looked like, but we put together a demo and they actually called me to interview.

What I didn’t know was they wanted me to audition,” said Burge.

They threw her in front of a green screen and off she went.

“I was terrified, but I thought, ‘I’m just going to have fun with this because I’m never going to see these people again.’

“They later offered me the job and offered to train me,” she said with a laugh.

She later went to work with a different company, which asked her to go west to Red Deer.

“As soon as I got here, it just felt right.”

Burge now holds two positions, working for Real Country 95.5 and as a meteorologist for Global TV, covering holidays for colleagues. She even worked for the television station when it was in Red Deer many years ago.

You’ll often find Burge at any country event you can think of in and around central Alberta.

Although she’s from Ontario, she spent most of her early days growing up in Edmonton and she’s always been a proud country Albertan.

Burge said she was always a fan of country music growing up, but she also knows and likes other genres.

“The fact that I can say that I know an Eminem song shouldn’t surprise everybody,” she said with a smile.

Throughout her career, she’s had so many incredible moments, having met lots of famous guests, but where she feels lucky is in having the ability to reach so many people.

“When Fort McMurray was evacuated, we decided that we were going to immediately do all we could to help, and there was a call that had been put out that they needed baby clothes, children’s toys and places for people to stay.

“I remember it sort of happened while I was on air and it was an instant turn around. Within minutes, people were showing up at the station bringing those things.”

That had gone on for a few days, when they realized they needed boxes to pack all of this stuff up to ship to the people needing it.

“Home Depot heard about it and sent us all we needed. When I think of something like that, it makes me really proud because boy, we have to have each other’s backs.”

In her spare time, Burge loves to spend time in her garden in Lacombe. She used to have a horse and hopes to get into riding again at some point. She also loves to spend time with her husband and new puppy.

“I’ve always had large dogs and we got him in February, and so he takes up a lot of my time.”

Coming up, Burge has a busy summer, with many rodeos, Westerner Days, Battle of the Rockies and other western events.

“It’s fun and it’s a good kind of tired,” said Burge of travelling across Alberta.

“I think there’s something special about country life. I tell my listeners all the time that country music isn’t something we just listen to, it’s how we live.”

treasures rairie P central alberta

Destination

Last Chance

Saloon

...comforts the sole

O

by stephanie rhodes

ne of the first buildings, and only, that you see when driving into Wayne, AB is the Rosedeer Hotel and the iconic Last Chance Saloon. With it’s booming population of 31, it’s a true “ghost town” with eerie hotel stories to match.

The building is sandwiched on a narrow, dusty piece of land between the railway track (which was removed in 1924) and the hills. Straight out of a Wild West movie it was the location for the filming of the western film Running Brave as well as the backdrop for a video by canadian band Northern Pikes. Let’s not forget Truman Capote’s “In Cold Blood” and Jackie Chan ‘s “Shanghai Noon”.

This town has a colourful history being located directly across the road from what used to be the Rosedeer Coal Mine. 2000 miners inhabited the area and Drumheller and the hotel fed and housed hundreds of men a day.

The Last Chance Saloon opens at noon. If you miss seeing the neon light click on, just listen for the rumble of motorcycles rolling in to enjoy the patio and live music. The inside is adorned with everything a true saloon should be. Vintage western posters and artifacts layer the walls and ceiling and there’s the “famous” piano, a long time fixture there since 1927.

It originally sat in the hotel lobby because in the early days there was no music or dancing allowed in bars.

It was meant for drinking not enjoying yourself.

However the saloon was rebellious and would roll it on castor wheels into the bar, and back out to the hotel if they saw a strange car approach. Music is now an integral part of the Last Chance Saloon. Folks are welcome and encouraged to strum along on guitar or washboard.

In the 1920’s this bar was called the “Bucket of Blood” due to the raging fights that the miners would

www.sisters6.com sistersroadside@gmail.com

get into. However they were respectful enough to take it outside most times, and usually were friends again by the end of the night, albeit bloody and battered.

Make sure to look above the piano at the framed bullet holes in the wall. This is a memory of the old tale of three strangers entering the bar, ordering drinks and refusing to pay. The bartender calmly walked back to the bar, pulled out a 45 caliber revolver and fired three shots in the wall, one over each of their heads. Although this sounds like a story from the 1920’s, it actually happened sometime in the 70’s.

If you ask what businesses there are in Wayne, you’ll be advised “You’re In it”. There used to be a post office, school and several other businesses but now only the hotel remains. In the early 70’s the population got down to 15 people, mostly old timers who retired. So there’s been growth!

Come Relax With Us.

Friendly Hosts, Great Breakfast, Beautiful Surroundings.

www.phoenixhousebb.ca 4 Queen bedrooms with private baths.

4812 50th Ave. Red Deer, Alberta Phone Number: 403-342-7653 Toll Free: 1-888-606-7653 www.comfortsthesole.ca

Full Hot breakfast with dietary options.

Phoenix House B&B

Relax on the veranda, patio, or in the gazebo.

403-742-3602 5914 - 50A Ave., Stettler, Alberta www.phoenixhousebb.ca

Compassionate rates for Hospital Visits & Funerals. Family Friendly.

P rairie

Living

summer 2019

27

treasures rairie P sylvan lake

Jazz at the Lake

A can’t miss weekend-long event 17th Annual Jazz at the Lake Festival Friday, August 16

F

by Megan Roth/Sylvan Lake News

eaturing an array of terrific talent, the highly-anticipated Jazz at the Lake Festival is returning for its 17th year, running from Aug. 16-18 at various venues around town.

Organizers took a couple of years to stage a concert series as a bit of a hiatus, but the festival is back in full swing and this year promises to be another superb experience for jazz lovers.

“We just felt we needed to take a break,” explained Eric Allison, one of the Festival’s founders.

His wife, Cheryl Fisher, a jazz performer herself, came up with the idea to launch the event back in the early 2000s.

Allison recalls Fisher coming up with the idea for the Festival. He said he teamed up with her, Al Fisher and Matt Toonders to further detail how to bring it together and hatch a plan to launch that very first event.

Fisher knew the history of Sylvan Lake and the passion for music that had existed in the community.

“She knew how Sylvan Lake had presented all of this great music; she thought, ‘why not bring this back? Why not have a jazz festival in Sylvan Lake? It’s already got the roots and the history.’

“We got together with her cousin Al Fisher, and Matt Toonders - the four of us had Caesars down at Pete’s on the Beach and hatched this plan.

Ultimately, we got about 10 business leaders to kick in about $500 apiece to put it on, the first year.

“From there, it just grew and it kind of took on a life of its own. It grew, and grew and grew - it’s like we couldn’t stop it,” he said with a laugh.

For more information about Jazz at the Lake, or to learn more about volunteer opportunities, check out www.jazzatthelake.com.

Quality Footwear, Clothing & Accessories

www.saksshoes.ca

Concert with the Wildrose Dixie Band

TIME: 1:30 p.m.

VENUE: Sylvan Lake Seniors Lodge, 4620 – 47th Avenue ADMISSION: FREE

Sylvan Lake Farmer’s Market with the Wildrose Dixie Band TIME: 5 p.m.

VENUE: Sylvan Lake Farmers Market, Lakeshore Park, downtown Lakeshore Drive ADMISSION: FREE

Laila Biali in Concert

TIME: 8 p.m.

VENUE: Gospel Chapel, 4290 – 50 St. ADMISSION: $30 Saturday, August 17

Picnic in the Park with community jazz bands TIME: 12 p.m.

VENUE: Centennial Park (Sylvan Lakefront) ADMISSION: Free

Swing Dance

TIME: 8 p.m.

VENUE: Royal Canadian Legion, 4916 – 50 Ave. ADMISSION: $25 Sunday, August 18

Blues and Latin Jazz Party in the Park TIME: 12 p.m.

VENUE: Centennial Park (Sylvan Lakefront) ADMISSION: Adults $10, kids free

Pubs and Clubs

TIME: late afternoon into the evening VENUE: Multiple venues along Lakeshore Drive ADMISSION: Free

Personalized Pet Memorials

Locally Handcrafted www.prairiecnc.ca For our story, our products & contact information visit us at www.prairiecnc.ca

Unique Handmade Pieces

5016 50th Street, Sylvan Lake 403.887.7257 • www.saksshoes.ca 28

summer 2019

P rairie

Living

Over 70 vendOrs

5048 50 st. sylvan Lake

Straight up now tell us with Sondra K. Saastad

what i’m

| 34, Owner of Luksus Clothing, Red Deer |

Q: Favourite Day Trip?

A: If I can ever sneak away, it’s to Calgary. I love the city and I really

enjoy the parks and trails.

Q: Favourite Place to treat yourself to a cocktail?

A: My first stop would be to To The Lost on Ross street in Red Deer.

Order the Plants & Animals cocktail. It is my fav and a MUST try!

oving L

Q: Top spot to take out of town travellers?

A: I’d take them to La Casa Pergola, a cute little Italian inspired restaurant downtown Red Deer. Also Tiffany’s, a nice lounge here in Red Deer.

Q: Favourite place to shop?

A: My Favourite place to shop? Luksus Boutique of course. I promote my

product naturally and love all the beautiful clothes in my shop.

Q: Best place to go for a facial?

A: I book in at Totally Refreshed Spa and thanks for reminding me, I should make an appointment.

Q: Favourite Summer Activities?

A:

My summer activities are all very local. Since opening the boutique, time is very limited, so hanging out with my son at Discovery Canyon, Bower Ponds and Sylvan Lake works great for us.

Q: What can’t you live without in your purse?

A: I’d be lost without my Lip Plumper by City Lips. I also sell it at my shop. (Wink).

Q: Favourite place for a coffee?

A: Having storefront downtown Red Deer I’m always conscious about sup-

porting our downtown businesses. So Dose on Little Gaetz is a no brainer and a GREAT cup of coffee.

Q: Favourite Night Spot?

A: I’m a sucker for live music and trendy spots. Velvet Olive, The Vat or One Eleven. All different but all good vibes!

Q: Favourite Skin Cream?

A: Currently loving the Arbonne RE9 Advance Line. A good friend introduced me to it and I’m hooked.

Q: Life Quote?

A: “What will be, will be” or “Take a deep breath. Tomorrow is a new day” Q: Piece of clothing you can’t live without?

A:

EVERY woman should have a great Jean Jacket . I use mine to dress my outfits up OR down. My most well used item!

Q: Favourite Summer Patio?

A:

There’s still a load of research I’d like to conduct on this one in person but Earl’s has a beautiful patio. It’s lush, green and always a great time.

P rairie

Living

summer 2019

29

Country artist returns to Red Deer to chat single release and growing up

Photo by sabine chorley

L

story BY CARLIE CONNOLLY

ooking around the open, green space at Mustang Acres in Red Deer, country singer Troy Kokol reminisces. It’s a place he used to call home.

Growing up on what he refers to as the wrong side of the tracks, Kokol said you had to learn to grow up fast, but it’s a place that holds a lot of memories, like falling in love with his first girlfriend in Grade 2.

The singer, songwriter and producer has several awards and nominations under his belt and more than 200 cuts as a songwriter. His songs have been recorded by artists such as Brett Kissel, Shane Yellowbird and more.

But being a musician didn’t appeal to Kokol right away. He was reluctant, hence the name of his first album and publishing company, Reluctant Cowboy.

It was his mom who got him into the entertainment field, as she was a travelling musician.

“I always looked at music as a working man’s thing,” he said, adding that he didn’t want to be a starving artist in a smoky bar and that there was never any romance to it for him.

Midway through college, Kokol actually wanted to start writing some songs, and in 2007, a miracle happened. He met a man who owned a record label, and one of Kokol’s songs ended up getting picked by him. That song was Pick Up Truck

30

summer 2019

P rairie

Living

and it blew up across Alberta.

“It was in the top 10 for 12 weeks and we won the SoCan Award and got nominated for songwriter of the year at the Canadian Country Music Awards. So it was like, ‘OK, I guess we’re doing this now,’” said Kokol.

Rather than being a country singer at the time, he wanted to be in Nirvana or Pearl Jam. “I wanted to be cool, but my stepfather and my mom, especially my stepfather, played the oldest really cool country. I tried to hate it, but it was just too catchy.”

Kokol then had to learn more about the country genre, as he didn’t know who was who. That’s where his wife Joni came in to help him out. She had co-wrote Pick Up Truck with him, while Shane Yellowbird was the artist.

“I came into it very sideways. It’s been very atypical.”

He just celebrated his single release for a song called Lightbulb, which was released in May. The song is the second single from his album Lonely Ghost, which he was nominated for at the 2018 CBC Indigenous Music Awards for best folk album.

“Buffy Sainte-Marie was on the nomination list. It was very, very cool,” he said.

“For me, what was more important, what I value a lot more, was being able to go into that community and see how positive and how empowering and encouraging that community is, and it afforded me the opportunity to change my perspective.”

Photo by sabine chorley

Kokol said the industry can be cruel on women and that they can be underrepresented and underappreciated by a long shot, so he said his favourite part was accepting the award for country music with his wife.

“We flew there from our basement apartment, and we’re standing in front of all the big of the bigs in Toronto. I don’t have to do anything else. My wife was able to stand there and be able to be recognized. For me, that was really cool, because I wanted that for her.”

Kokol also happened to be elected as a director to the Songwriters Association of Canada and one of the things he wants to champion is women in music “However that ends up happening, I want to make sure that we push toward that.”

For his recent single release Lightbulb, Kokol also wanted to do the video for it on his own.

“I used to cartoon professionally – panel cartoons,” he said, adding that he wanted to do a stop motion video.

The process was a long one, taking him nine months. It ended up being a CGI stop motion and real animation. He even ended up recording, mixing and mastering his own record.

Being one of the few Indigenous artists in country music, Kokol said it’s only been a benefit for him.

“I feel like people are open to new ideas and there’s a real push right now for people to say, ‘Hey let’s involve Indigenous artists and Indigenous people in our business.’”

He added that he didn’t get his Metis card until last year, but he wanted to get out of Red Deer because of setbacks like poverty.

“Being Indigenous for me meant family addictions, it meant prison time, it meant a whole bunch of things that were negative.”

When Kokol finally got into the music business, he threw his hat in with some of his Indigenous artist friends and quickly found out that there are some amazing artists trying to say something important, so he realized he missed out on an opportunity to learn about the culture and the people. He said the music helped him re-embrace the cultural side.

Kokol currently lives in Calgary with his wife, business partner and award-winning songwriter, Joni Delaurier.

www.raymondshores.com Premier Lakeside Community

• All Season Gated Community.

• Fully Owned Private Lots.

• Large Treed Lots.

• Private Marina & Gorgeous Lakefront.

• Indoor Pool, Hot Tub & Clubhouse.

sales@raymondshores.com 1-888-802-2628 (toll free)

www.raymondshores.com P rairie

Living

summer 2019

31

husband. I in five ize 4

70 lbs Eliminated in 10 Months with Hypnosis!

Do you suffer with depressing thoughts? Is your health suffering?

That used to be me...

My name is Pat and I have dropped 70 lbs in 10 Months with Hypnosis. Hypnosis has improved my appearance, my self esteem, my health and I move more! I can’t wait until I STRATION ENDED reach my next goal! with weight. I had been to gym programs. I tried . Nothing lasted.

Now I am in also a sizeimproved 4 and this my relationship with my Hypnosis has ason why. My husband! search stopped ♥ here. called to make the appointment for the free screening.

STRATION ENDED ose. I actually was so excited to get the help that I with weight. I had been to gym programs. I tried otists on the street before my appointment. I asked Nothing lasted. Now I am in a size 4 and this dson with me My andsearch told me everything why. stopped here.would be covered at he right place My immediately I got there.

They name iswhen Candace Smith and my kids were so happy they called to make the appointment for the free screening. me who had succeeded on the program. It was fun and se. I actually was so excited get the help that I Hypnosis! cried when Itoquit smoking with etists thatonallthe hypnosis is really self hypnosis.

Motivation street before my appointment.

I amfor a Non-Smoker after 20 yearsIofasked smoking thanks to Hypnosis for Health and this would work me. with me and told me everything would be covered at

Before

After

*individual results may vary

Are You Struggling to Quit Smoking?

Happiness to quit smoking. I can’t explain how free I have felt, my chest pains have e right place immediately when I got there. been gone for over a month now, myThey health has improved, and I do not feel bad me who had succeeded on the program.

It was fun and levels of stress, peer pressure taking care of myself! I have faced unimaginable eating I stopped watching the me, but the Hypnosis kept my heart entrol that of all my hypnosis ischoices. really self hypnosis.

Motivation to switch to vape, bounties of smokers around his would for me. help me. Iwork quit forplaces, myself.

Youwater could say andfeeling mind insorry the right I drink instead!!!

. I always knew what to do but I needed help to I have quit many times over the years, with temporary/ unhappy/ angry outcomes, st that kind of help.choices. nothing compares to this experience have with Hypnosis. I have many happy moments, and I look forward to ntrol of my eating I stopped watchingI the

a non-smoker!! help me.

I quitevery feeling sorry for myself.

You could say Hypnosis for Health and Happiness! Thank you! dreds of dollars on day junkas food alone.

It’sI fully nicerecommend to know always knew to do I needed help rIyour health.

Ofwhat course thebut kids still raid thetokitchen.

Call Now Free Screening

t that kind of help.

YPNOSIS dreds of dollars on junk food alone. It’s nice to know

403-33-HYPNO (403-334-9766)

®your withhealth. Of course the kids still raid the kitchen. ave even PNOSIS used this ®e with about the ave even me I this used boutsuffer the Why

me I vary sults hy suffer

STAY WITH IT GUARANTEE Regardless of how many sessions you may need to attain your desired results and goals, I stay with the problem until you are happy. I offer a Written Service Guarantee.

ults vary 101 5214 47 Ave, Red Deer • 5006-50th Ave, Castor, AB •r, 4910-50th Ave, Castor, AB AB • 403-741-8669 P rairie r,(403-334-9766) AB • 403-741-8669

ANTEE

ANTEE ny

dy to

32

summer 2019

Living

FREE HYPNOTIC SCREENING

FREE SCREENING I give HYPNOTIC a 30-40 minute screening. It’s fun I and giveinformative. a 30-40 minute It’s fun I willscreening. give you an