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MARCH 16 - APRIL 15, 2016
The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan
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Travel & Tips
JORDAN DEGOUW Alberta's Backyard Proud Young Pinoy-Canadian Hockey Player Tata “Tatsky” Gascon
Featured Community: Bow Valley (Series)
WRITER
The world of Ice Hockey may not be popular for most Canadian Pinoys, but being the national sports and the most popular in Canada, the game has paved its way in the hearts of many of our “kababayans” who were adopted by this Country whether as independent immigrants, naturalized citizens, Canadian-born, etc. Mostly played during the season of winter, this ice sports is one that our very own Canadian born Jordan Degouw loved. Jordan, whose mother Linda is a Filipina and whose father Tony is half Dutch and half Canadian, is only 15 years old. He started off his love for this sport when he was only 7 years old. His parents and his only brother Andrew, as well as his coaches are his driving inspiration for the last 8 years. Because of them, he holds his hockey stick with great pride and dignity. Currently a varsity player for SISEC (Swiss International Sports & Education Centre), Jordan gives credit to his parents for being behind him in his love for Hockey. His practices were mostly spent on outdoor rinks, at the Canada Olympic park and most gyms that have hockey rinks. He is now a trained referee as well. Back in 2013, he played Roller Hockey in California for the Alberta Team. His accomplishments to name a few were being named Most Valuable Player (MVP) just last month by SISEC at the Winsport. The medals and awards he had gotten indeed makes him a well-deserved Pinoy icon in this field. A role model for our young generation. When asked who his favorites are, Jordan is
Marietta Pangan-Dutkoski ASST EDITOR IN-CHIEF
quick to mention the famous Patrick Kane and Tyler Seguin. He particularly admires their leadership skills and tremendously good team playing habits, which is one of the most important traits that any sports enthusiast must possess. Over the many years of playing, Jordan learned the skills and finds being with his team, is one activity he loves to be in during his spare time. “They’re really a bunch of great guys and I feel very relaxed when I am with them”, says the young Jordan. The team also get to go to different cities to compete. Their bonding on and off the rink which made them very good friends, is one
thing he truly believes will stay. What is his future dream you asked? Just like any ice hockey player who knows nothing can beat boredom but great hockey fix, Jordan dreams to play professionally someday. Not bad for a 15-yr old who learned to juggle between being a regular typical teenager and a serious junior ice hockey player. Jordan Degouw is going to be a household name parallel to those favourites and famous names in the field of Hockey. Our hats-off to you Jordan! You make us all proud because you hold in your blood and in your heart, what a true Pinoy is all about.
The stretch that start from Morley, Deadman's Flats, Exshaw, Kananaskis Country, Canmore, Banff and Lake Louise comprise the Bow Valley Community. Kananaskis will be our featured destinations to open these "off beaten paths" to our very own province's travel experiences. K- Country Albertan's endearing term to Kananaskis Country is known pristine natural setting and outdoor lifestyle is surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Add to it are green meadows, rivers and streams, and fascinating wildlife. Kananaskis Country is a prime destination, often kept as a secret mountain sanctuary for locals, away from the masses. It is also the home to Nakiska Ski Resort, a world class facility built for the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics which was specially designed for the alpine events. In the winter months, you may have tried these famous outdoor adventures which include skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and ice fishing . While at summertime, golfing, camping, hiking, biking, kayaking, rafting and horseback riding are all possible in this picturesque corner of the Canadian Rockies. However, have you ever encountered one or all of these while in this beautiful outdoor wonderland? 1. Fat Biking- It is an off-road bicycle with over-sized tires, typically 3.8 in (97 mm) or larger and rims 2.6 in (66 mm) or wider, designed for low ground pressure to allow riding on soft unstable terrain, such as snow,
sand, bogs and mud. 2. Skijoring - A winter sport where a person on skis is pulled by a horse, a dog (or dogs) or a motor vehicle. Skikjøring is a Norwegian word meaning ski driving. 3. Wildlife encounter from the deck of a cozy lodge. It's not unusual to see grizzlies here so don't forget to pack pepper sprays, just in case. 4. Savour regional cuisine at charming restaurants in Kananaskis Village who offers various warm western accommodations and hospitality or visit the Delta Kananaskis Lodge for a taste of multi awarded decadent chocolate dessert creations. Where is Kananaskis Country? Kananaskis Country is located West & Southwest of Calgary and borders the town of Canmore and Banff National Park. It can be accessed by three highways: Highway 40, a 66 km segment of the Kananaskis Trail; Highway 66, a 28 km highway originating from Elbow Falls Trail; and Highway 68, a 42 km gravel highway originating from the Trans-Canada Highway1 known as Sibbald Creek Trail. Don't miss these stops along the way starting at Kananaskis Village, for unique shops, restaurants and pubs. Longview, the village famous for its beef jerky and the Bar U Ranch National Historic Site, for more cowboy culture, original buildings and interpretive tours. Turner Valley and Black Diamond for a glimpse of Alberta's rich past in the early years as the world's greatest oil producer. Millarville Farmers' Market is open every Saturday during the summer, and is famous for its fresh
produce and interesting goods from local vendors, Don't forget the Ponies Racetrack which is Canada's oldest established in 1905. Bragg Creek the place to shop for native and western art, local pottery, jewelry and other unique gifts. Don't Forget: 1. Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: Weather in Kananaskis can change quickly, so dress in layers so you can peel them off as you get warmer. When hiking, have a windproof/water resistant jacket (, a fleece shirt or jacket and light gloves. Microfibre is the best material to wear when doing outdoor activity, as it is very versatile and dries quickly when wet. It also wise to pack an umbrella when hiking to keep you dry during downpours. Wear a pair of runners, sturdy walking or all-terrain shoes 2. Toiletries and Medical Supplies: Bear spray, Mosquito repellant, high SPF sunscreen, a pair of sunglasses, and hat. Don't forget to bring water. 3. Photo Equipment: Extra Battery, SD and Filters can come in handy when taking pictures, because of the high altitude and subsequent strong sunlight. You may want to buy a pair of binoculars for more up close experience with wildlife. 4. Adhesive Tape: Duct tape is handy to put on feet if your shoes are rubbing, or for general repairs, or to tie up your travel companion (just kidding). This Travel Tips is sponsored to you by: For Inquries and Affordable Tour Packages, contact: (403)7087191 email kcrewcoach@gmail.com