AMA Insider - Spring 2024

TURN VACATION MODE ON RIGHT AWAY.

When you book travel with AMA, you’re booking with trusted experts that have worlds of experience. With that kind of confidence, you can slide into vacation mode right away.

A LETTER FROM OUR PRESIDENT

MEMBER LETTERS

RADAR

Travel, arts, culture, local hot spots and more.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE?

ROAD MAP

SPRING 2024

THE GOOD PLACE

GET THE BEST CAR FOR YOU

Finding the right vehicle starts with being honest about your needs and how much you can afford.

AUTOMOTIVE

Essential maintenance basics that new vehicle owners need to know.

Red Deer’s Tree House Youth Theatre teaches kids the power of art and the joys of finding community.

Meet Alberta actor and director Christine Brubaker. TRAVEL

TRACKING THROUGH FLORIDA

A high-speed, low-stress train tour through the Sunshine State reveals its underrated spots.

A CULINARY JOURNEY IN JAPAN

Travel cross-country to sample humble street foods and delicacies fit for an emperor.

BIRD CALL

Grab your binoculars—here’s how to welcome and nurture our local feathered friends.

CHARGING UP ALBERTA

AMA participates in the Alberta Mobility Leaders panel at Electric Mobility Canada’s annual EV conference.

FAMILIAR GROUND

Is this spot a hidden gem, a classic landmark or right in your own backyard? Take a guess!

Heritage Park is 60 and we’re celebrating!

Get a ll-year membership for just $60.*

We’ve packed even more n into our 65 wonder l acres with bold new attractions and ultra-special events for 2024. We’re shining up the midway, polishing the train, and ne-tuning the S.S. Moyie for our most exciting season ever.

Learn more at heritagepark.ca/membership

*Alberta residents only. Must show proof of residency.

Exclusive AMA Member O er

AMA Members save 15% on regular adult admission at the Park (discount not available online). Please bring your AMA membership card on the day of your visit and redeem your o er at the ont gates. For additional information, email info@heritagepark.ca

Our Past, Present and Future

IN JUST TWO SHORT YEARS, we will be celebrating our centennial as an organization. When I think about what led to that milestone, and the generations of Albertans whose lives AMA has touched, I’m deeply humbled.

Millions of roadside rescues. Hundreds of thousands of School Safety Patrollers helping their peers cross the street. Nearly a million student drivers whose first experience behind the wheel was with us.

To be part of that kind of legacy is a privilege I don’t take lightly because so much of AMA’s story is the province’s story, too. We’re here because people just like you have trusted us to be part of your lives—to protect the things that matter most, now and into the future.

Of course, we can’t talk about the future without acknowledging those who will lead it: our children. The challenges they face today are real, and they are many. It’s our job (and honour) as fellow Albertans to help them along that journey.

At AMA, one of the ways we’re doing that is with our new School Garden Studio initiative. As Albertans working in a province with a strong agricultural and entrepreneurial foundation—a place with abundant sun, water and space to grow—the Studio is a natural fit as our next program.

It’s a curated online resource that supports teachers in creating gardens in the classroom, helping teach kids the power and satisfaction of growing their own food. Much like the AMA School Safety Patrol, which has been operating since 1938, the Studio is based on the fundamental importance of building confidence, reducing feelings of

vulnerability and empowering youth— letting them experience first-hand how just one person can make a difference.

Indeed, a 13-year-old AMA member recently did just that.

After seeing someone asking for food outside a gas station in December, Maxwell Chugg from Edmonton decided to take action. He mobilized his entire hockey team to donate to the food bank, raising nearly 200 pounds of food for Albertans in need.

I’m proud to share how, with the generous help of members like you and that Edmonton teen, our Fill Our Fleet campaign for food banks raised an incredible $199,117 and 46,602 pounds of food in 2023. That lifts our historical totals to $1.25M and 343,855 pounds of food for friends and neighbours in need.

During these economically trying times, this year’s campaign wasn’t easy. But together with you, we did it! You have my heartfelt thanks, both for supporting the campaign and for placing your trust in AMA. And you have my word that we’ll continue this important work through our next 100 years. AMA

Michelle Chimko President and CEO Alberta Motor Association

Edmonton teen Maxwell Chugg (in grey sweatshirt) and his hockey team collected nearly 200 pounds of food for a local food bank.

Your passion for Canada’s natural spaces defines your life; now it can define your legacy. With a gift in your Will to the Nature Conservancy of Canada, no matter the size, you can help protect our most vulnerable habitats and the wildlife that live there. For today, for tomorrow and for generations to come. Order your Free Legacy Information Booklet today! Call Jackie at 1-877-231-3552 x2275 or visit DefineYourLegacy.ca

KEEP THE CONTENT COMING

I read your magazines almost cover to cover, nearly every time! I really appreciate them. My favourite parts are usually the local attractions and day-trip suggestions, along with the spectacular photos. My absolute favourite are the articles about fellow AMA members. I love seeing myself in other people whom I’ve never met. We all have at least one thing in common—AMA!

—Maegan T.

AMA CARES

My wife and I joined the hundreds of other members who took advantage of your Getting Ready for Winter (AMA Car Care) event on September 10, 2023. We just wanted to compliment you on how well organized it was, how complete the inspections were and how polite and friendly all the staff were.

—John B.

Thanks, John! AMA’s member-exclusive Car Care events take place every fall, and our team is already hard at work on the plan for 2024! Members can find out more at ama.ab.ca/CarCare

PROUD TO BE A MEMBER

What a class act AMA is! There have been too many developments in travel, rewards, services, insurance, merchandise and other perks over the years to even list. My family and I have enjoyed many of these offerings during my time as a member—from paper shredding to towing to planning numerous trips. And throughout all these years, we have found the staff at AMA to be simply delightful. They are professional, friendly and efficient. Is it any wonder that I’ve been a member for 50 years? Give yourselves a big pat on the back! What a pillar of the Albertan community AMA is.

—Sid D.

FILL THAT FLEET

My wife and I support our local food bank (Parkland Food Bank) in Spruce Grove and had just made a donation to them when we received AMA President Michelle Chimko’s message on the Fill Our Fleet campaign. I hope that Fill Our Fleet is able to reach its goal.

—Bill T.

Great to hear, Bill! AMA is proud to report the results of the Fill Our Fleet campaign— flip to page 5 to find out how it went.

Direct flights to the world’s best Aurora.

Long, dark nights in wild landscapes with no light pollution. Arid climates and minimal cloud cover that provide crystal-clear views of the cosmos. A prime location under the auroral oval—the thin band around the Earth where the most intense Northern Lights activity occurs. Experienced guides who know precisely where to go for intimate, life-changing Aurora experiences. Put all that together and it’s clear why the Northwest Territories is the best place in the world to see the Northern Lights.

With direct flights from Ottawa, Toronto, Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver, getting to the light show has never been easier.

The fully accessible 40-metre-high Sentier des Cimes offers a panoramic

Province of Adventure

Discover first-hand why Quebec earned its nickname, La Belle Province

AS WINTER RETREATS, spring is a great time to experience the delights of La Mauricie, Lanaudière and the Laurentians—three neighbouring regions of Quebec just a few hours north and east of Montreal. From a walk through the tree canopy to a scenic seaplane ride and Instagram-worthy accommodations, here are a few spots not to miss.

FAROUCHE TREMBLANT:

145 km northwest of Montreal

This farm and eco-escape, mere minutes away from Mont-Tremblant National Park, combines the best of Instagrammable aesthetics (A-frame cabins) with home-like comforts (king beds) in nature. If you’re not staying overnight, stop by the café (open weekends in spring) for a coffee, a local beer or glass of natural wine. You can rent paddleboards and electric fatbikes to explore the land around the property. Farouche also purveys herbs and spices grown on their farm, which make for excellent gifts. And if you ask, they might even let you explore the farm yourself.

Once you reach the top, you can challenge your fear of heights by walking out on a net suspended in the centre of the panoramic lookout tower

SENTIER DES CIMES: 129 km northwest of Montreal

Built in 2022, the Sentier des Cimes is a spiralling boardwalk and observation tower tucked into the pine, spruce and maple forest of the Laurentians. The 1.5-kilometre journey from the front entrance to the top of the 40-metre-high tower is fully accessible for those with strollers and mobility aids. Once you reach the top, you can challenge your fear of heights by walking out on a net suspended in the centre of the panoramic lookout tower.

HYDRAVION ADVENTURE, LA MAURICIE NATIONAL PARK: 157 km northeast of Montreal

The best views of La Mauricie National Park are from above. Hydravion Adventure’s seaplanes take off from the St. Maurice River and bring visitors up to the skies for a journey around the St. Lawrence Valley, where they can see the city of Shawinigan (the birthplace of former prime minister Jean Chrétien) and La Mauricie Park’s lakes and lush forest canopy. Choose from a 75-kilometre round-trip flight or the longer 125-kilometre trip—both are scenic floatplane adventures.

LE BALUCHON ECO RESORT: 135 km northeast of Montreal

This sprawling eco-resort has gradually been expanding since it opened in 1990. Le Baluchon now spans 1,000 acres, including farmland, with 88 rooms across four inns, seven suites and chalets and more than 35 kilometres of hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails (there’s a horse stable on the property). End your day with a soak in their Nordic spa, which has outdoor hot tubs with views of the Rivière du Loup.

view of the Laurentian Mountains.

Riel Houle

ACROSS CANADA, there’s no shortage of beautiful places to pitch a tent in summer. But at Riel Houle’s Pale Horse Tipi Camp, on the Piikani Nation in the foothills of southern Alberta, summer camping is no ordinary experience.

Houle is a former elected councilman for the Piikani Nation, one of the four nations that make up the Blackfoot Confederacy. He was inspired to launch the business in 2010 while working at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage site for Blackfoot culture and heritage. At Pale Horse (palehorse.ca), visitors can stay in a traditional Blackfoot tipi for a night or book an all-inclusive immersive weekend experience to learn about Blackfoot culture. Activities include medicine hikes with a traditional ethnobotanist (and learning the Blackfoot names of local plants), Elder storytelling, cooking lessons and a horseback riding program to introduce visitors to Blackfoot horse culture.

Houle ensures a strong focus on ecologically responsible practices and hires community members as much as possible to work at the remote, off-grid camp. “I see our tipi camp…basically as a sustainable hub for our community,” he says.

For Houle, a gratifying part of running Pale Horse is seeing the impact of the camp on young people in the Blackfoot community. “When I do hire people at my camp throughout the summer, usually it’s post-secondary students. And what happens is they get to come back to the reserve and…actually get to teach and relearn their culture, which [reinforces] practising it.”

–Truc Nguyen

Nominate a Localer. If you know someone doing good in your community, send ideas to AMAInsider@ama.ab.ca and they could be featured in an upcoming issue.

THE ONE

Converse Unisex

Chuck Taylor All Star

Hi Top Shoes

Strut into spring with these classic sneakers that can brave any adventure this season brings, thanks to vulcanized rubber outside soles for durable, non-skid traction and canvas upper panels for lightweight all-day comfort.

• features medial eyelets for enhanced airflow

• rubber toe cap and bumper for added protection

Watch your step. Earn 5% back in AMA reward dollars with online purchases at PRFO Sports.

PHOTOGRAPHS: (FROM TOP) COURTESY OF CONROY PROVOST COURTESY OF CONVERSE CANADA

Riel Houle’s Pale Horse Tipi Camp provides visitors with the opportunity to deepen their understanding of Blackfoot culture.

Glamping a go-go

Ditch that pitched tent for one of these glam campsites across Canada

AS THE WEATHER WARMS UP, it’s time to sleep under the stars—in style. From a horse farm with see-through domes to ultra-cozy, oceanside tree pods, take your pick from these wonderful glamping spots from coast to coast.

ELK ISLAND RETREAT: Fort Saskatchewan, Alta.

In the heart of the Alberta wilderness, just east of Edmonton, is Elk Island Retreat, a 60-acre family-owned campground with four geodesic domes, two yurts and three cabins— thoughtfully kitted out with gas fireplaces, outdoor barbecues and cozy queen beds. Jurassic Forest is a 45-minute drive away, and luxury catered picnics are available on-site.

CAMP WOLF WILLOW: Outlook, Sask.

This magnificent 100-acre property sits on the hills above the South Saskatchewan River, 80 kilometres south of Saskatoon. Alongside traditional campsites are solar-powered glamping options, including wooden A-frame cabins and luxury canvas tents. And there’s entertainment for both young and old. Think kiddo-geared seasonal activities, like a lilac maze and pumpkin patch, and the adult-friendly winery and pizzeria right next door.

UTOPIA

FEELS BOTANICAL GLAMPGROUND

AND MICRO-FARM: Coldstream, B.C.

Located 65 kilometres northeast of scenic Kelowna, this Indigenous-owned “glampground” delivers on its name. Not only is it located in a former plant nursery—with 20 acres to explore—it also has farm animals on-site, including a Jersey calf, giant rabbits and dwarf goats. The tents are dressed to the nines with queen beds and handcrafted furnishings.

At

GLEN ORO FARM: Hawkestone, Ont.

Calling all galaxy gazers: Glen Oro Farm, situated some 130 kilometres north of Toronto, features nine geodesic domes with see-through walls and ceilings, perfect for marvelling at the starry night sky. There’s also a 200-acre horse farm (guests can gallop through the nearby forest if they wish) plus five luxurious canvas tents, a spa-style cold plunge and a cedar-barrel sauna heated by a Finnish wood stove.

TREETOP HAVEN: Mount Tryon, P.E.I.

The ultra-cozy accommodations at Treetop Haven, an all-season family-owned property, are nestled amid green space 45 minutes west of Charlottetown. Glampers can avail themselves of five TreePODs—a cross between a treehouse and a pod or dome—as well as a vacation apartment and a lodge (both accommodate up to nine guests each). Everything the east coast has to offer is just a hop, skip and jump away—lobster shacks, red sand beaches and the Atlantic Ocean.

An AMA Travel counsellor can help you explore more cross-country summer fun. Visit amatravel.ca to learn more.

HOT SPOT

Longview Steakhouse

Looking for a steakhouse with a spectacular view? This unpretentious spot is worth the 45-minute scenic drive from Calgary along—what else?—the Cowboy Trail. Longview Steakhouse (longviewstkhouse.com) is known for its wall of west-facing windows that showcase sweeping vistas of the lush foothills and Rocky Mountains beyond. But the view’s not the only reason Longview was recently listed as one of Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in Canada: It’s the old-fashioned hospitality and expertly prepared Alberta beef that make diners crave second helpings. –Beth Hitchcock

PHOTOGRAPHS: (FROM TOP) COURTESY OF BRIAN HUNT COURTESY

@YUMMY.YYC

A geodome at Ontario’s Glen Oro Farm features a splendid sky view.

Longview, your order comes with a side of the Rockies.

What Songs Do You Road-Trip to, Terri Clark?

When Alberta-raised Canadian Music Hall of Famer and country music star Terri Clark is road-tripping, she “[tends] to lean towards music outside of the country genre and, mostly, along the mellow side. However, I have many playlists, from jazz to classic country to ’70s rock. It all depends on the mood of the moment.”

–Karen Bliss

Pin It Down

Madison Cunningham

Hospital

Madison Cunningham

Come See About Me

Tedeschi Trucks Band

Living My Best Life

Ben Rector

Mockingbird

Ruston Kelly

Heartbeats

José González

Re: Stacks

Bon Iver

Roll with the Punches

Dawes

Now and Then

The Beatles

Options Open

Kathleen Edwards

Songs may not be appropriate for everyone.

Listener discretion is advised.

Into the Swing of Things

Hole-in-one golf resorts across the country

By Andrew Penner

CANADA IS A GOLF-RICH COUNTRY with renowned resorts where you can “grip it and rip it,” coast to coast. And now that spring is here, putter patter, let’s get at ’er.

FAIRMONT JASPER PARK LODGE When golf courses are described, the word “masterpiece” is often overused. However, in the case of Jasper Park Lodge—a stunning 99-year-old classic by renowned golfcourse architect Stanley Thompson—the description fits to a tee. Both the course and the regal resort are situated on the peaceful shores of gem-blue Lac Beauvert, Alberta—a truly unforgettable setting. If you want to spend the night, AMA members save up to 20% on room bookings at Fairmont Hotels & Resorts.

ELK RIDGE RESORT Comfortably in the top tier of Canadian golf spots is the 27-hole Elk Ridge Resort, located in a beautiful swath of boreal forest on the edge of Prince Albert National Park, Saskatchewan. Featuring a soaring timber-framed lodge, a spa, fine dining and

An aerial view of Cabot Cliffs golf course at Cabot Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.

contemporary rooms just a Nick Taylor putt from the first tee, this resort is an oasis in Western Canada.

LAKEVIEW HECLA RESORT

With some holes sitting snug along the shores of Lake Winnipeg and others zigzagging through a majestic mixed forest, the layout at the Lakeview Hecla Resort, Manitoba, is peaceful—parkland golf at its finest. After golf, guests can unwind in the cozy confines of the lodge, soak in the indoor/outdoor pools, visit the Salka Spa and dine at Seagull’s Restaurant and Lounge.

TABOO MUSKOKA A lodge. A lake. A golf course. It’s the trifecta for those looking for the ultimate golf retreat. And the entire Muskoka area north of Toronto is pure gold for golfers. Located along the rocky shores of Lake Muskoka, Taboo is an upscale resort that

includes a fantastic Ron Garl–designed golf course, which is expertly routed through rough terrain. Non-golfers will appreciate the wide assortment of recreation options, including the beautiful private beach, hiking and biking trails, nearby boat rentals and clay tennis courts.

THE ALGONQUIN RESORT

This historic New Brunswick outpost boasts a spectacular seaside golf course that was recently renovated by acclaimed Canadian architect Rod Whitman. The entire property is steeped in history. If the golf course and iconic Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel don’t win you over, the charming and historic village of St. Andrew’s by-the-Sea surely will. This is considered Canada’s first seaside resort town.

CABOT CAPE BRETON

With two of the best links courses on the planet—Cabot Links, opened in 2011, and Cabot Cliffs, opened to the public in 2016—Cabot Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, is an unparalleled golf offering in this country. It’s essentially the St. Andrews of Canada. Thanks to the luxurious lodge, the restaurants (fresh seafood, anyone?), the idyllic beach and the many nearby attractions—check out the Glenora Distillery—even non-golfing guests will savour the experience.

So you’ve mastered traditional golf? Try your hand at some new and fun versions of the sport.

DISC GOLF

One of the fastest growing sports in the world, disc golf is played in a similar fashion to golf except players throw discs from a tee pad to a basket. Courses are usually nine or 18 holes. Visit candiscgolf.ca to learn more.

FOOTGOLF

If your foot wedge is the best club in your bag, you may want to try your hand—er, foot—at FootGolf. Played with a regulation soccer ball by kicking it into a 21-inch cup, FootGolf is a fast-growing sport with new courses appearing across the country. Visit footgolf.ca to learn more.

FLING GOLF

Although still in its infancy, fling golf is nonetheless quickly on the rise. A combination of lacrosse and golf, it’s played with a Flingstick that, well, “flings” the ball towards the hole. You can even play it alongside your regular golf foursome! Visit flinggolf.com to learn more.

MINI GOLF

Call it what you want—Putt-Putt, goofy golf, putter golf, adventure golf (and there are more monikers)—but “miniature golf” is a game that has brought joy to millions for nearly a century. And its popularity continues—just ask Tiger Woods. His PopStroke mini-golf and casual dining concept is “popping up” all over the southern U.S. Visit minigolfsport.com to learn more.

GOLF’S GOOFY COUSINS

Sunset at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club in Alberta.

It’s just like a fairytale. But if the animals start talking to you, be concerned. It’s a different world up here. Learn why.

Cabin Pressure

Flight cancelled at the last minute? Here’s how to salvage your trip and get the compensation you deserve

By Jeremy Freed | Illustration by Holly Stapleton

IT’S A SCENARIO no traveller wants. You get to the airport, navigate check-in and security, arrive at your gate on time— and find out your flight has been delayed for hours or, worse, cancelled altogether.

Take heart. You might not be able to prevent the occasional flight cancellation, but there are resources, and actions you can take, that will help ensure a flight cancellation won’t stop you in your tracks.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Since 2019, the Canadian Transportation Agency’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations have helped ensure that passengers travelling to, from and within Canada are fairly compensated for flight delays and cancellations when the airline is at fault. These regulations—often referred to as “the air passenger bill of rights”—are currently being reviewed, and an updated version is expected later this year. Until then, here are some highlights from the current regulations to keep in mind.

• If your flight is cancelled last-minute, airlines are obligated to give you essential information, including the reason for the cancellation. They must also inform passengers about the compensation and assistance they may be entitled to.

• If your flight is cancelled or delayed by three hours or more due to an issue within the airline’s control, you are entitled to compensation, and the airline must book you on another flight as soon as possible.

• If the airline can’t get you where you need to be or you’re not satisfied with the itinerary they offer, in most cases you are entitled to a refund.

If you’re travelling on an airline outside of Canada, keep in mind that air passenger rights vary from country to country. The International Air Transport Association (iata.org/en/ youandiata/travelers/passenger-rights/) provides links to air passenger rights organizations in several regions and to a directory of Civil Aviation Authorities around the world.

Ready for takeoff? Follow these best practices to help ensure that a last-minute cancellation won’t derail your travel plans.

INVEST IN TRAVEL INSURANCE

Before you go on your trip, it’s essential to purchase travel medical, trip interruption and trip cancellation insurance. In the event of last-minute travel disruptions, these insurance policies can make it easier to find another flight or receive compensation.

ARRIVE EARLY

If you’re travelling for a time-sensitive event, such as a wedding, graduation or coach tour departure, plan to arrive at least a day ahead of time. That way, even an extended delay won’t result in disappointment.

PACK SMART

To weather long delays or cancellations with greater ease, pack your carry-on with your travel essentials, including a couple of days’ change of clothes, valuables and medication. And don’t forget anti-boredom options such as iPads, games for kids and books, too. AMA

Learn about Air Passenger Rights (APR) and access AMA’s new APR tool at ama.ab.ca/airpassenger.

And have an AMA Travel consultant walk you through what to do if your flight is cancelled.

SCAN ME

Basics and Beyond

New drivers need to know a few basic maintenance essentials—and leave the rest to the professionals

By Matthew Guy | Illustrations by Guilherme Henrique

FOR MANY NEW DRIVERS, that driver’s licence is a ticket to freedom and an invitation to enjoy the open road. But the complex ins and outs of a vehicle may be intimidating, and understandably so. Here’s some foundational knowledge to help new drivers build confidence on the road.

TIRE’D AND TRUE

Those four tires are the only part of your car in direct contact with the road. Making certain they’re in top shape—and as high-quality as you can afford—should be a priority. Watch for damage caused by road hazards and make sure they’re inflated to the recommended tire pressure—psi (pound per square inch). Keep an eye on the treads for any odd wear pattern, which could reduce traction and indicate an alignment problem. Plan to install winter tires well before the first snowfall.

FLUID SITUATION

The fluids are the lifeblood of your vehicle. The engine oil, transmission fluid and coolant are vital for your car to function properly, so drivers need to be familiar with key components under the hood. These include the filler cap and dipstick for engine oil and transmission fluid, as well as the coolant and windshield wiper fluid reservoirs. Find out where the battery is located and check it for signs of corrosion or bulging, especially if it’s more than three years old. Know how to read an engine oil dipstick or, at least, learn how to interpret dashboard indicators. And get into the habit of checking underneath your vehicle for any sign of leaking.

A car’s dashboard is home to a host of crucial information

LEADING INDICATORS

A car’s dashboard is home to a host of crucial information. Some warning lights illuminate in yellow or amber as reminders to keep an eye out for certain issues. Make note of these and let your mechanic know at a future service appointment. Other alerts, which may light up in red, are critical indicators of potentially serious problems—peruse the owner’s manual for clarification. There are apps now that help identify warning lights simply by pointing your smartphone’s camera in their direction. Many vehicles are now also equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system—the typical TPMS image on a dashboard is a yellow tire-like icon with an exclamation point.

BASIC MAINTENANCE Replacing

windshield wipers on a car is a relatively simple task. The counter assistant at your local parts store may even offer to do it—watch closely and pick up a useful skill. Remember to check the owner’s manual and follow the recommended service schedule. Rely on your mechanic for oil changes and maintenance checks—and for seasonal tire swaps, you can book Mobile Tire Change Service through AMA.  AMA

Questions about vehicles?

Visit ama.ab.ca/auto/vehicle-maintenance for advice and resources to help you keep your vehicle in top running order.

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Diet & Wellness

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What’s Your Favourite...?

Celebrated actor, director and educator

Christine Brubaker on her newfound love of Calgary’s lively arts and culture scene

By David Jager

What else surprised you?

The Indigenous presence here is very strong, in the form of Siksikaitsitapi, the Blackfoot Confederacy. And on that note, I want to give a shout-out to an Indigenous theatre company, Making Treaty 7. They put on innovative Indigenous-based programming about three times a year. A phenomenal, stand-out company.

Speaking of theatre, how would you describe the local theatre scene?

Incredibly vibrant. There are a number of really good and robust theatre companies doing good work—Theatre Calgary and Downstage Theatre, a small company consistently making very interesting and progressive programming.

Aside from the theatre, where would you send a visitor?

AS A LONG-TIME CONTRIBUTOR to Canada’s theatre community, AMA member Christine Brubaker thought Toronto was the centre of the universe. But after moving west with her family to take a position in the University of Calgary’s School of Creative and Performing Arts, she developed a whole new appreciation for Alberta—and a new set of favourites, courtesy of her adopted hometown.

You were a diehard Torontonian for decades.

What did you find when you arrived in Calgary?

Not what I expected! I was surprised to find it was really open, especially in terms of people’s willingness to entertain new ideas. Also, there’s the light. There’s just such an incredible amount of light here in the Prairies. Calgary is a very light-filled city and it’s surrounded by absolutely pristine, awe-inspiring nature. It’s quite spectacular.

There are a number of really good and robust theatre companies doing good work

To Kensington, which has a great collection of coffee shops and eclectic shops. Pages on Kensington bookstore is a literary mainstay. They have great events there. Downtown is also great—my favourite restaurant, Ten Foot Henry, is there. Also, the Central Library [opened] in 2018 and is one of the most beautiful buildings I have ever seen—anywhere.

What do you think makes Calgary such a centre for the arts?

It’s the mix of the theatre and music scenes. The Calgary Folk Festival has been going for 45 years. The lineup is always amazing—folk and country, but always genre-defying. Then there’s the Block Heater festival, in February, which is the winter version. One thing I love about Calgarians—they have no fear of the cold! AMA

PHOTOGRAPHS: (FROM TOP) COURTESY OF CHRISTINE BRUBAKER; JEWHYTE/ STOCK; KATY WHITT/COURTESY OF DOWNSTAGE THEATRE

(From top) Christine Brubaker; Calgary’s Central Library; Downstage Theatre’s 2023 world premiere production of The F Word.

When it rains, we shine.

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Play Time

Red Deer’s Tree House Youth Theatre teaches kids the power of art and the joys of finding community

By Kate Rae | Photograph by Colin Way

ALBERTUS KOETT KNOWS first-hand the magic of discovering the world of theatre. “I was an introverted kid,” he says. “And in Grade 6, the drama teacher pulled me aside one day as I was walking down the hall and said, ‘Hey, come join a play.’ I said ‘Okay!’ because I was non-confrontational. And it changed my life.”

Now the artistic director of Tree House Youth Theatre in Red Deer, Koett, who is also an AMA member, gets to see other kids making that same discovery. Tree House founder Richard O’Brien created the theatre in 1988 after noticing a gap in programs being offered to youth interested in theatre. Decades later, when Koett took over as artistic director, he saw an opportunity to fill another gap—there weren’t any other programs offering kids a chance to create a show from scratch.

Today, Tree House teaches its participants that there is much more to theatre than acting—every role required to put on a show is equally important, from lighting and costume design to stage managing and directing. “Participants sign up as an ensemble, and then together we determine where people go,” explains Koett. “It’s created, so everyone feels safe to try things that they may not have before.”

Ultimately, it’s not just teaching kids about the joy of theatre and community, but also what’s needed to build a career in this field. “Yes, there are opportunities on Broadway to get acting roles, tech roles and design roles. But those are really hard to get and there are a lot of people competing for that,” notes Koett. “Where artists typically will have success, especially early on, is by creating their own theatre. So, what we’re trying to do is teach them what an ensemble looks like... and the skills you need to put on a fringe show and create your own stuff.”

Introverted

a

It’s created, so everyone feels safe to try things that they may not have before

For families that may need a subsidy in order to participate, there are funds available. “That’s why our fundraising, sponsorship and donations are so important,” says Koett. “We never want finances to be a barrier to accessing theatre.” The best part of Koett’s job is seeing kids come out of their shells as he did. “I always tell them we’re not striving to make the greatest theatre on the planet. We want to create memories and have fun in the process.” AMA

Is there an organization in your community that people need to know about?

Contact us at amainsider@ama.ab.ca. We’d love to hear about it!

as

kid, Albertus Koett was inspired to pursue theatre as his profession. (Below) Sweeney Todd, a Tree House production.

Tracking through Florida

A high-speed, low-stress train tour through Central and South Florida reveals the Sunshine State’s underrated gems

By Claire Sibonney

IMAGINE STARTING YOUR DAY with breakfast poolside at a resort in Orlando and, by noon, you’re feeling the warm breezes of South Florida, in Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale or Miami. It’s easier than ever with Brightline, Florida’s sleek highspeed passenger train, which has launched its eagerly awaited new route connecting Central and South Florida.

With trips from Orlando to Miami in just three and a half hours, Brightline whisks you through the Sunshine State, but the journey is about much more than getting there quickly. On this environmentally friendly biodiesel-electric train service, you can reduce your carbon footprint while experiencing the timeless luxury of low-stress train travel—in this case, replete with cushy hand-stitched leather seats, full windows for contemplative gazing and free mimosas for Premium guests. Just sit back and enjoy the scenery, including Florida’s famous citrus groves, bountiful wetlands and other glorious landscapes that change with every passing mile.

(Right) A Brightline biodiesel-electric locomotive. (Opposite page)

The Celebration Hotel in Kissimmee is next to the lake and trails for walking and biking.

ORLANDO

Tampa (future development)

START: ORLANDO AND KISSIMMEE

After landing in Orlando, it’s easy to hop on the Brightline with a stop right at the airport, but I decided to take some time to explore Kissimmee first. My base was the Celebration Hotel, with its architectural nods to turn-of-the-century Florida—replete with picket fences—in an area known for its picturesque American-small-town vibe, including an idyllic view of Lake Rianhard from my balcony.

The quaint streets of Celebration Town, a community originally developed by The Walt Disney Company in the 1990s, unfolds like a storybook village, and the serene lakes and sprawling wetlands of Osceola County beckon for a quiet kayak trip and glimpses of wildlife.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

Gatorland This 110-acre family-owned park and wildlife preserve south of Orlando doubles as a refuge for relocated wild alligators. The park features a heart-pounding zip-line track that soars over alligator breeding marshes, teeming with hundreds of the so-called swamp puppies.

Paddling Center at Shingle Creek Glide under a canopy of stunning cypress forest, past banks brimming with wildlife (including herons, turtles and alligators), while learning about the creekʼs rich history.

Cirque du Soleil’s Drawn to Life At Disney Springs, experience a world where animation and acrobatics intertwine in a performance featuring rhythmic gymnasts and aerialists animating drawings through movement.

Salt & The Cellar This restaurant, located in the luxurious Ette Hotel, is helmed by Michelin-starred chef Akira Back. Don’t pass on his signature tuna pizza. Note that the Ette is a dry hotel (BYOB still welcome). But its dramatic zero-alcohol libations showcasing fresh botanical ingredients are delightful alternatives—picture a fairytale forest tableau in drink format.

Columbia Restaurant Renowned for its 1905 Salad—tossed table-side with ham, Swiss cheese, olives and the signature garlic vinaigrette—and for its saffron-infused paella, this oldworld restaurant balances traditional Spanish and Cuban recipes with Floridian flair. Other dishes of note are the Devil Crab Croquettes and Original Cuban Sandwich.

WEST PALM BEACH

Boca Raton

FORT LAUDERDALE

Aventura

Miami Central

(From top) A map of Brightlineʼs route and station stops; kayakers enjoy a guided nature tour with the Paddling Centre at Shingle Creek; “The Inner World of Animation,” an act from Cirque du Soleilʼs Drawn to Life

More to Do in Orlando

By Jen Mallia

Orlando may be the theme park capital of the world, but there’s plenty more to see in the aptly nicknamed “City Beautiful.”

Slather on the sunscreen and head to Wekiwa Springs State Park. Paddle past stately homes on a kayak tour with Adventures in Florida to learn about the wildlife and history of the local waterways.

Browse more than 180 shops in the airy galleria of the Orlando International Premium Outlets on International Drive Hot tip: Pick up souvenirs at the Disney Character Warehouse, which offers licensed products at clearance prices.

The trendy community of Lake Nona is home to Boxi Park, an open-air food hall with stalls constructed from repurposed sea containers. Sample the creative bites and beverages on offer at the numerous food stalls.

Orlando Magic generally plays 41 home games at Amway Center each season. Ticket holders can create their own VIP experience before or during the NBA games with a buffet dinner at Jernigan’s, which overlooks the arena.

Take in a concert at Steinmetz Hall in the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. This elegant state-of-theart facility features acoustics engineered to blow you away.

Treasure Coast Sailing Adventuresʼ newly restored sloop, Resolute, can accommodate up to 12 passengers for sailing trips in Martin County.

NEXT STOP: WEST PALM BEACH AND MARTIN COUNTY

Back at the new bright and airy Brightline station at Orlando’s airport—with its cocktail bar and well-stocked market and gift shop—you can reach West Palm Beach in just over two hours. West Palm offers high-end shopping, art and a stand-out culinary scene, but I headed to Martin County for a more relaxed and small-town feel. Explore the rustic vibe of the Treasure Coast, starting with a stroll on Stuart's picturesque Riverwalk.

I stayed at the Old Colorado Inn, which is comprised of several charming properties in downtown Stuart. Accommodations range from boutique hotel rooms in the main inn to quaint cottages and, close by, distinctive homes that include the historic Owl House, a 1904 riverfront home with five bedrooms and a private outdoor spa, just steps away from lively shopping and dining venues and the scenic St. Lucie River.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

Treasure Coast Sailing Adventures Set sail from Stuart on one of their classic sailing vessels that can be chartered for small or large groups. Join one of their daily group sails or create your own custom charter to visit the nearby sandbars or opt for a deep-water cruise to the Indian River Lagoon estuary, home to pelicans, osprey, eagles and dolphins.

Riverwalk Cafe and Oyster Bar Nestled by the St. Lucie River, this restaurant is a Stuart local favourite with its fresh oyster bar and specialties, such as oysters Romanoff (a.k.a. “dirty oysters”) served with sour cream, shallots and caviar, complemented by an extensive list of 120 wines, 50 of which are sold by the glass.

Hobe Sound Marvel at the unique limestone formations of Blowing Rocks Preserve and relax on peaceful Jensen Beach. A dolphin-spotting walk in Hobe Sound’s Peck Lake Park is just one of many free eco-tourism events available in Martin County.

FINAL STOP: FORT LAUDERDALE

Although you can take the Brightline route all the way to Miami, my final stop was Fort Lauderdale, often called the “Venice of America” for its extensive canal system. It’s a destination made popular by its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches and buzz-worthy restaurants. A water taxi journey provides glimpses of the lavish yachts and luxurious mansions of Millionairesʼ Row.

The modern all-suite Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort was my home base and I could have stayed there all day to enjoy the pools and private cabanas set against a wraparound deck framing the ocean views. But there was still so much more to see. The resort is a stone’s throw from the beach and Las Olas Boulevard, where you can stroll through historic districts, browse chic boutiques and explore art galleries. Also on offer are complimentary bicycles to tour the area’s many hiking and biking trails.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

Dune by Laurent Tourondel One of the few restaurants on Fort Lauderdale beach, Dune is led by its French Michelinstarred chef namesake and is a highlight of the city's burgeoning dining scene. The menu melds Asian and Mediterranean influences, with specialties such as toro nigiri with lemon glaze and a stand-out branzino filet with fennel and artichoke.

La Fuga Tucked in the Kimpton Shorebreak Resort, La Fuga with its coastal Italian flair has an indoor-outdoor dining room within view of the rooftop pool. Begin with a skillfully crafted Negroni, then try one of the handmade pastas, such as the tagliatelle al ragu Bolognese or lobster ricotta ravioli.

(Above) A Caribbean flamingo fishes in the pond at Flamingo Gardens. (Opposite page, from top) The Ocean Deck dining patio at Dune in Fort Lauderdale; Tagliatelle al ragu Bolognese from La Fuga at the Kimpton Shorebreak Resort.

Flamingo Gardens You could spend a full day wandering through this 60-acre sanctuary, featuring thousands of exotic plants, ancient trees and one of the largest collections of wading birds in America (including flamingoes, of course). The gardens also include a habitat where you can watch rambunctious river otters play. Don’t miss the 1930s Wray Home Museum and narrated tram tours through the historic oak trees and tropical groves.

On my flight home, my mind is filled with the beautiful sites I enjoyed—and a few new discoveries I caught a glimpse of as I whizzed past them on the train. Thanks to the convenience of the Brightline, I know that on the next trip, these and many more unexplored stops are just a short ride away. AMA

CLAIRE SIBONNEY is a freelance travel and lifestyle writer and editor whose work has appeared in National Geographic, Self, Teen Vogue, InStyle and other publications. Sibonney teaches journalism at Centennial College.

Travelling to the U.S.?

Don’t forget travel insurance. AMA Travel Insurance includes options that cover emergency medical and dental care, lost baggage and changes to your trip. Visit amatravel.ca/travel-medical-insurance to get a quote.

A Culinary Journey

Travel cross-country to sample Japan’s delectably diverse cuisine, from humble street foods to delicacies fit for an emperor

By Corrina Allen | Illustrations by Romane Mendes

IN MY PAST THREE TRIPS to Japan, visiting the main island of Honshu, I’d never had a bad meal. I’d slurped down shoyu (soy sauce) ramen in Tokyo and experienced, in Kyoto, a traditional tea ceremony. Each dining experience revealed something vital about the culinary culture and traditions of the country.

This time, I headed for delicious destinations a little farther afield. I joined tour provider Oku Japan alongside a small group with adventurous palates and travelled southwest to Osaka and Awaji Island, then north to tiny Nanto, near the Sea of Japan.

ROYAL PROVISIONS ON AWAJI

Many chefs adhere to the idea that diners eat with their eyes first, and in Japan, this is apparent on every plate—food is beautifully arranged and presented or packaged. Care is an elemental ingredient in Japanese cuisine, as essential as tea, rice, fish and soy. Nowhere was this more evident than on Awaji Island, on the Seto Inland Sea. The serenity of this sleepy resort area overlooking Osaka Bay belies its hardly humble culinary legacy. Considered a mitsukekuni (roughly translated as “region of food”), Awaji Island has long been a source of

Osaka’s Kushikatsu Daruma (far right) specializes in deep-fried skewered snacks.

premium beef, seafood and other luxury ingredients for dishes once served at the ancient imperial court in Kyoto.

More recently, in Sumoto, a city on the east coast of Awaji, chef Satoru Shinsei served our group a feast fit for royalty— grilled fish with satoimo (Japanese taro root), a seasoned carrot terrine and panseared mackerel partnered with roasted shallots and fresh figs. We also sampled the island’s famed beef—mild, slightly sweet and liberally marbled with fat.

His restaurant, Shoku No Wa, is so named for his culinary philosophy, one he describes as focused on “food harmony.” By reinvigorating traditional cooking techniques with innovative twists, Shinsei’s been credited with sparking a culinary renaissance on Awaji, which now boasts several upscale restaurants as well as luxury accommodations.

Before sitting down for his three-course meal, our tour group spent the morning watching fish-laden boats dock at the local market for auction.

Each dining experience revealed something vital about the culinary culture and traditions of the country

We also visited a small fish-processing shop to see the delicate work required to debone Japanese cutlassfish, or tachiuo. Our meal at Shoku No Wa was the culmination of all this meticulous labour and rich culinary history. Each dish was a visual and gastronomical celebration of the seasonal ingredients the island has to offer.

STREET FOOD IN DOTONBORI, OSAKA

On clear days, you can see Osaka from Awaji, but culturally and aesthetically, Osaka is a world away. The heart of its seafood-centred food scene is busy, buzzing Dotonbori. Surging with tourists, lit with neon and adorned with giant animated signs, Dotonbori district is crowded, loud and one of the most exciting places to eat in Japan.

Takoyaki (grilled octopus balls topped with Kewpie mayo, green onion

and bonito flakes) is among Japan’s most popular street foods. Join the lineup outside the shop—there’s a huge 3-D octopus sign above the entrance. If you’re looking to sample some of Dotonbori’s freshest shellfish, head to Kani Doraku. You can’t miss it—visible from down the block, a giant mechanical crab literally

waves customers inside. There, at the takeout counter, I had one of the most memorable dishes of the trip—a piping hot nikuman (fluffy steamed bun), which was stuffed with shredded sweet crab meat.

Takoyaki and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) shops dominate the district’s

;

(From top) Fresh local fish is celebrated at Shoku No Wa restaurant, in the coastal town of Sumoto; takoyaki (battered octopus balls) on offer at an Osaka food stall.

main arcades, but Kushikatsu Daruma Namba Honten entices with a hard-to-miss alternative. Under a massive statue of an angry-faced chef, the iconic eatery serves up kushikatsu, skewers of deep-fried meat, seafood and local vegetables— the perfect bar food. Add a pint of ice-cold Asahi and soak up the full experience. Osaka is a street food lover’s dream with far more to relish than what you can fit into a week.

FAMILY-STYLE FARE IN NANTO

After a hike through the serene mountain town of Nanto, four hours north of Osaka by train, I arrived at Yomoshirō, a small family-run inn of a type called minshuku. Our hosts offered towering bottles of frosty beer alongside traditional Japanese spreads. A draw for food lovers, minshuku provide meals as elegant as they are simple. Local specialties play a central role in these meals and, in Nanto, these would include the town’s famed fermented preserves prepared to last through harsh, snowy winters.

Once seated cross-legged on tatami mats, guests are offered fermented local vegetables, grilled or fried fish, and a silky cold tofu dish called hiyayakko. The second course is a bowl of flavourful miso soup, finished with a serving of plain white rice. For breakfast in Nanto, we were treated to umeboshi (pickled plums)—a flavour bomb of salty and sour that could be classified as an acquired taste.

But that’s entirely the point of my trip. I came to acquire new tastes, experience untested flavours and choose a new favourite dish—one more reason to return to Japan. AMA

CORRINA ALLEN is a Berlin-based Canadian writer covering travel, food and design trends. Her work can be found in The Globe and Mail, rePorter, Pivot and on Forbes.com

An AMA Travel counsellor can help you plan a delicious culinary adventure, including accom modations and restaurant recommendations. Visit amatravel.ca to learn more.

From street food to sushi, Japan’s food markets and halls boast some of the richest culinary offerings

NISHIKI MARKET, KYOTO

Many chefs adhere to the idea that diners eat with their eyes first. In Japan, this is apparent on every plate

Show up hungry at this market in central Kyoto. Established as a marketplace in 1615, this 400-metre-long arcade is the best place to get a feel for the cuisine of the cultural capital of Japan. Must-try items include wagyu kushiyaki (skewered bites of premium-quality beef), tako tamago (tiny skewered octopus stuffed with a quail egg) and sweet tamagoyaki (a rolled omelette flavoured with rice wine and soy sauce).

TSUKIJI OUTER MARKET, TOKYO

Just a 20-minute walk from Shimbashi JR Station, Tsukiji is the destination for seafood enthusiasts. Formerly a wholesale fish market, it is also a draw for travellers

Department store chain Daimaru is legendary for its underground food halls (called depachika). The Tokyo Station location in GranTokyo North Tower features rows and rows of snacking options, including a patisserie section that would impress even a Parisian. Try the strawberry-and-whippedcream sandwiches served shokupan—white milk bread that has the texture and consistency of a cloud.

OF CORRINA ALLEN

Located in Ainokura (above), a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Yomoshirō inn features a traditional thatched roof.

Bird Call

Grab your binoculars—the migratory birds are back. Here’s how to welcome and nurture our feathered friends

By Andrea Yu

THE SOUND OF BIRDSONG in spring is something that Yousif Attia looks forward to every year.

“Birdwatching is so therapeutic for me,” says Attia, an outreach and content specialist at Birds Canada, a national bird conservation organization headquartered in the lakeside town of Port Rowan, Ont. “At its core, birding satiates this human desire to connect with the natural world.”

And Attia is not alone. Since the pandemic, he has noticed a surge in birdwatching interest, particularly among millennials. “We’re seeing more people out there, especially folks from diverse backgrounds and people younger in age.”

For many birders, their pastime is a meaningful way to feel closer to nature and other people—which is especially significant for those who may feel marginalized. “If you see somebody your age or who looks like you and they’re birding, it gives you the feeling of, ‘This is a place or a space I could be part of as well,’ ” notes Attia. In Vancouver, where he lives,

Birds Canada's Yousif Attia (in white mesh hat) leads a local group on an instructive birding walk at Queen Elizabeth Park in Vancouver.

the group Birding with Me celebrates “diversity in bird and human communities.” They host free guided walks tailored to specific groups, including those who identify as women, BIPOC or 2SLGBTQ+, and hold events in various languages, including Spanish, Mandarin and Filipino.

Birdwatching is not just enriching for bird enthusiasts; it can also have a positive impact on the birds themselves. Apps such as eBird allow users all over the world to log bird sightings in their local communities, which contributes to conservation decisions and research. Initiatives such as the Great Backyard Bird Count—an annual event which sees participants log the birds they see within a four-day period via eBird—can be done from home.

Having more birds around to admire is only one reason to help protect them. Canada has more than 420 species of birds that face a host of issues, from a reduction in habitat due to forest degradation to shifting migratory patterns affected by climate change. Autumn Jordan, an organizer at the Ottawabased environmental non-profit Nature Canada, describes birds as an indicator species. “The biodiversity of our bird communities can really show us a snapshot of overall system health,” she notes. Some birds are pollinators, while fruit eaters help with seed dispersal. And birds play an important role in the food chain, too. “Owls are natural rat-eaters, and scavengers like crows and turkey vultures clean up our messes,” Jordan explains. “Warblers and barn swallows keep those nasty mosquitoes at bay.”

There’s a lot we can do in our own backyards to attract and protect our feathered friends. It can be tempting to clear out dead foliage, but Sarah Coulber, an education specialist at the

BIRD HOUSE RULES

While we love—and need—to have birds nearby, many issues that they face stem from our residences and buildings. Here’s how you can help at home.

Keep your cats indoors or on a leash “Over a hundred million birds per year are killed by outdoor free-roaming cats,” says Jordan at Nature Canada.

Add window decals Window collisions account for 16 to 42 million bird deaths a year. Prevent bird strikes by applying decals or window films with dense patterns of dots or grids on the outside of the glass to make it look like a barrier to birds.

Opt for a pesticide-free garden Pesticides kill bugs that birds depend on for food. “Sometimes, using your garden hose is enough to get rid of [unwanted bugs],” Coulber notes. And when purchasing plants and seeds, ensure they have not been sprayed with neonicotinoids, a category of powerful neurotoxic insecticides.

Canadian Wildlife Federation, says leaf litter is a spot where insects—a food source for birds—can gather, and dried long grasses are used as nesting material. She encourages homeowners to find a balance between a manicured garden and a safe shelter for birds. “Maybe you can leave a back corner of your garden untidy.”

If using feeders to attract more birds to your yard, place them far from windows and bushes where predators can hide. Keeping bird feeders and bird baths clean is critical to help prevent the spread of avian flu. Coulber recommends cleaning them with unscented natural soap and water once a week.

Feeders are a supplemental food source, but birds rely on the greenery in

your yard. “Native plants have co-evolved with wildlife,” explains Coulber. “Our native plants [bear] fruit that has the right proportion of fat to sugar that birds need to either overwinter or migrate.”

Fill your outdoor space with various beautiful native plants and flowers. If you build the right habitat, you won’t need to seek them out—the birds will come to you. AMA

ANDREA YU is a freelance journalist and a contributing editor at Toronto Life and Maclean’s. Her work has been published in The Globe and Mail and the Toronto Star. Her home base is in Toronto, but she takes every opportunity to travel and be in nature.

Flock Together

Consider supporting these local organizations that help protect wild birds in your area

CALGARY URBAN SPECIES RESPONSE TEAM

To help protect birds and bats, CUSRT monitors window bird strikes and encourages building design and maintenance improvements to prevent them. It also works to enhance Calgary’s urban habitat by using native vegetation. calgaryurbanspecies.ca

EDMONTON NATURE CLUB

A registered non-profit, the ENC hosts walks and field trips, along with birdcentric initiatives like the Edmonton Christmas Bird Count and the May Bird Count—two global citizen science projects. edmontonnatureclub.org

NATURE ALBERTA

(Top) Eared grebes documented during the Edmonton Nature Club's 2023 May Bird Count.

(Left) A downy woodpecker eats peanuts from a garden wreath bird feeder.

Dedicated to the conservation of nature in Alberta, this non-profit has resources for beginners, information on winter birding and special events for avian enthusiasts. naturealberta.ca

Get the Best Car for You

who’s driving?

Driving Enthusiasts. Commuters. Savvy Savers.

Finding the right vehicle for you starts with being honest about your needs and how much you can afford

By Matt Bubbers

Illustrations by Rami Niemi

“WHAT CAR SHOULD I BUY?” is one of the most common questions members ask AMA’s automotive experts. There’s no such thing as “The Best Car”—but somewhere out there is a best car for you.

“It’s about finding a vehicle that suits you and meets your needs,” says Colin Fritz, AMA associate vice president of operations. He boils down the carshopping process into three steps. First, be honest about your needs. Second, make a shortlist of models that fit the bill. And lastly, test-drive them all because there’s no substitute for seat time.

With these steps in mind, we break down some of the most popular types of vehicles on the road and what kind of driver suits them best.

sedans or hatchbacks

The Pros Sedans and hatchbacks are the most affordable, most energy-efficient, most maneuverable new vehicles on the road today—perfect for long commutes and drivers on a budget. Newer compact sedans have become large enough to comfortably seat adults in the rear seats, too. Sporty sedans and hatches can be especially fun to drive, feeling nimble, precise and playful.

The Cons Lower ground clearance means you’ve got to be more careful in deep snow. Some manufacturers arguably make their sedans too sporty, to the detriment of passenger comfort and everyday usability. Since sedans, hatches, station wagons and coupes collectively make up only a small slice of the new-vehicle market, the selection of new models is not nearly as vast as it once was.

small and mid-size suvs

The Pros Many drivers love that SUVs are elevated, which means less bending and ducking to get in or out. New parents (and their lower backs) will appreciate that the extra height also makes it easier to get a baby into a car seat. Mid-size SUVs are especially versatile, delivering enough passenger and cargo room for extended road trips and camping expeditions.

“SUVs have been exploding in sales since 2009,” says Andrew King, managing partner at Canadian auto-industry advisory firm DesRosiers Automotive Consultants. Their data suggests that SUVs (of all sizes) account for nearly 60 percent of annual new-vehicle sales. Given how versatile and easy they are to live with, that should come as no surprise.

The Cons SUVs are typically more expensive to purchase (by as much as $10,000) and less fuel-efficient than similarly sized sedans. Getting a model with all-wheel drive (AWD) often means stepping up to a more expensive trim level. While AWD does offer peace of mind, whether you really need it or not comes down to where you live, notes Fritz. He suggests that drivers in well-plowed urban areas are probably okay without it. who’s driving?

Urban Families. Road Trippers. Value-Conscious. who’s driving? Adventurers. Large Families.

large (full-size) suvs

The Pros If you prioritize maximum space and go-anywhere capability above all else, you need a big SUV. Many full-size SUVs offer spacious third rows and have the ground clearance to go where minivans can’t. In fact, SUVs with a third row of seats have effectively replaced minivans, the sales of which are dwindling. Some big SUVs are based on body-onframe truck chassis, while others are based on car platforms. The former are often better off-road, while the latter offer a better, quieter ride for long commutes. Large SUVs are great for true adventurers with families (or lots of friends) who need a powerful ride with space for everything from pets to people and outdoor gear to groceries. They are good, too, for cross-country or rough road excursions and hauling heavy loads (boats, ATVs, snowmobiles). Luxe options abound, hence popular with the city see-and-be-seen set.

The Cons They’re heavy and often have big, gas-hungry engines. They’re more expensive to purchase and own than smaller SUVs or cars. Their sheer size means they’ll be bursting out of downtown parking spaces and often have limited outward visibility, which isn’t ideal in areas with lots of pedestrian traffic. Shorter drivers may find some big SUVs too tall, making it difficult to get in or out.

who’s driving?

Skilled Trade Workers. Farmers. Outdoor Enthusiasts.

pickup trucks

The Pros Pickups are more versatile than ever, from new compact trucks to $100,000 luxury rigs. It’s little wonder pickups account for roughly 23 percent of new-vehicle sales, according to DesRosiers’ data. Fritz says pickups are best for people who actually use them as trucks—for towing, hauling and getting work done—as well as for outdoor enthusiasts (with their toys) who need to get to remote spots. “Most contractors under-buy on their trucks,” he says. In other words, if you’ll often be using the upper limit of a truck’s payload or towing capacity, consider stepping up to a bigger truck.

The Cons Despite technological advances, pickups still aren’t as comfortable as cars and smaller SUVs. They’re not fuel-efficient either and, therefore, less ideal for commuters. Plus, studies have shown that the tall, blunt front ends on many trucks pose a greater risk to pedestrians in the event of a collision. AMA

money matters

Due to supply shortages leading to higher car prices, plus rising interest rates, average car payments were $800 to $1,000/month in 2023, says Rob Carrick, personal finance columnist at The Globe and Mail. Carrick suggests choosing a car or truck that limits monthly payments to $500 or $600 with a five-year-maximum loan term.

power play

Which type of engine is right for you depends in large part on how far you drive daily

electric

Even new entry-level EVs can travel 400 kilometres or more between charges. But since batteries are expensive to produce, EVs carry a price premium. If you drive a lot, the fuel savings will likely make up for the additional purchase price, so it pays to do the math. Having a parking spot to plug in and recharge your vehicle overnight isn’t strictly necessary—you could rely on public chargers—but it makes EV ownership much, much easier.

hybrid

Plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) can typically travel 30 to 60 kilometres on battery power before their gasoline engines kick in. They’re versatile—great for short weekly commutes and long-weekend road trips— but don’t excel in any one area. Mildhybrid electric vehicles (MHEVs) can’t be plugged in and don’t have much (or any) electric-only driving range, but they deliver consistently good fuel economy. “If you’re driving on the highway all the time, a hybrid’s not going to do a whole lot of good; it helps reduce fuel consumption a little bit. But if you drive in the city, they help a lot,” says Fritz.

ice

(internal combustion engine)

These vehicles need no introduction as they’ve been around for more than a century. Gas and diesel engines are still the best option if you regularly tow heavy loads over long distances.

MATT BUBBERS writes regularly for AMA Insider Magazine, specializing in car culture and transportation. He is a columnist for the Drive section of The Globe and Mail and writes for a variety of publications in Canada and the U.S.

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Welcome to spring It’s here. The season filled with warmer days, shorter nights and fun for the whole family.

Travel Alert

Avoid becoming a victim of fraud on your next vacation

|

By Vawn Himmelsbach

IMAGINE

IT’S

THE

DAY before your flight and you get a message that your trip has been cancelled. You get an alert from the airline—at least, you think it’s the airline—telling you to click on a link to rebook the flight and pay the difference. But when you go to check into that next flight, you discover you were never rebooked. You’ve been the victim of a phishing scam.

This is the latest fraudulent scheme that Nikola Berube, director of sales for AMA Travel, is hearing a lot about. From online booking scams to rigged ATMs, there are a number of ways travellers can become victims of fraud before, during and even after a trip. Here’s how to avoid getting scammed and safeguard your vacation.

Book with a trusted source

If you are booking on your own or need to book something while already on the road, make sure you are booking on a trusted site; avoid unfamiliar companies with “too good to be true” deals. Fraudsters can easily create a fake travel site using itineraries and photos from authentic websites. So you might think you are booking a particular hotel or airline, but you are not.

Consider using a travel counsellor

An AMA Travel counsellor can help you avoid online booking scams and non-reputable companies, as well as assist with visa requirements, travel advisories and insurance. Travel advisors work only with trusted suppliers and licensed tour operators and can also offer support if anything goes awry with a supplier not affiliated with AMA.

Get your International Driving Permit (IDP) from AMA

The only place in Alberta to obtain an IDP is from AMA. Any online booking site claiming to offer IDPs isn’t authorized to do so. If you’ve already left the country, do not fill out any online forms to get an IDP—AMA does not have an online application process.

Avoid suspicious-looking ATMs

If anything on the front of the ATM is broken or dislodged, it’s possible a fraudster has installed a card-skimming device. Look for ATMs associated with recognized banks and, ideally, located behind vestibules. “Be aware of your surroundings,” advises Berube. “You don’t want to be targeted at an ATM and be robbed, either.”

Don’t bank over public Wi-Fi

If you’re in a café, don’t be tempted to use the free Wi-Fi to make online purchases or do your banking. It’s easy for hackers to access public networks, and tourists are easy targets. Do your financial transactions only via a secure Wi-Fi source or cellular data plan.

When you get back

Continue to monitor account activity when you return home, as thieves can sit on credit card information for weeks, or even months, before attempting to use it.

Planning your next trip? Visit amatravel.ca to book with a trusted online travel provider or to book an appointment with a travel counsellor.

EV conference charges up Alberta

AMA participates in Alberta Mobility Leaders panel

By Allison Bench

ALL EYES ON CANADA’S electric vehicle (EV) scene were to the west when Edmonton played host to EVVE, the annual conference of Electric Mobility Canada (EMC). Hundreds of industry leaders from the electric mobility and automotive space—including the Alberta Motor Association—gathered to discuss the latest in programs, policies and research supporting Canada’s EV transition.

Edmonton may not seem like the obvious choice as host city for the annual conference. Nationally, the provinces with the most zero-emission vehicles registered are Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia. However, according to EMC’s CEO, Daniel Breton, Alberta is an area being viewed as having huge potential in the EV industry.

“We have more and more members from Alberta who are interested in the EV transition—people who want to create jobs in the province,” Breton said. “These people are working very hard in Alberta. If we don’t come here to support them and show them that we are there with them, we would not be doing our job.”

To kick off the conference, Electric Mobility Canada awarded FrançoisPhilippe Champagne—Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry—the Al Cormier Award in recognition of work to advance electrification. Champagne noted that the EV industry is a doorway of possibilities for both Canada and Alberta.

“I think it’s all about jobs, growth and opportunity—something that people in Alberta know well, and in Edmonton,” Champagne said. “We have everything to succeed here. Most of what you see—particularly in these big EV projects that are going to transform the economy—are all about jobs. We have the talent, we have the trades, we have

the knowledge to build big things.”

The EVVE conference took place over four days in late November 2023 and featured dozens of special presentations and groups focused on the expanding electric industry in Canada, including a panel discussion that AMA participated in.

Electrification a ‘significant change’ for AMA

Exploring how the province is preparing for the next chapter of mobility was the focus of the Alberta Mobility Leaders panel that AMA participated in.

Jane Flower, AMA’s vice-president of corporate purpose, joined ATCO Electric’s president, Melanie Bayley, and FortisAlberta’s president, Janine Sullivan, in a discussion on how Alberta organizations are adapting for electrification. Flower explained that AMA’s goal through the transition is to make sure that all of its members, regardless of how they choose to be mobile, will continue to receive the support they have come to rely on.

“Electric vehicles are becoming a preferred choice for some of our

members and we need to live up to our commitment to protect them in the same way as we do those members that drive gas-powered vehicles,” Flower said. “All of our members deserve the same level of support and peace of mind.”

AMA has already laid much of the groundwork—which includes 22 EV charger installations, emergency roadside charging, an educational EV Life podcast and EV driver education—with more services to come.

“AMA is about to be 100. Many years ago, we helped Albertans through the transition from horse to vehicle,” Flower noted. “Electrification marks another significant change. We’re proud to have the opportunity to invest in work that will support our members to be mobile in whatever way they choose.”

Jane Flower Vice President Corporate Purpose AMA

Daniel Breton (left), EMC’s CEO, and François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, at the 2023 EVVE conference in Edmonton.

Travel Safe

Read your travel insurance policy, so you can travel with confidence

THERE’S A LOT TO DO when planning a trip—getting travel insurance should be at the top of the list. From eligibility to deductibles, knowing what’s in the fine print can help prepare you for anything.

Trip cancellation and interruption

The Cancel for Any Other Reason benefit will only be included if you buy your policy within 72 hours of paying your initial deposit on your trip.

If you need to cancel your trip, you could incur higher penalties the closer you get to your departure date —and those penalties may not be covered if you wait to advise the insurance company of the reason for cancellation.

Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

Pre-existing medical conditions are only covered if they’ve been stable for three or six months prior to departure (depending on your age). Consider purchasing “pre-existing medical condition” optional coverage to reduce the stability period down to just seven days before your departure date.

“Even unintentional mistakes on a medical questionnaire can affect coverage in the event of a claim,” says Karla Page,

AMA Travel’s insurance sales manager. “So be sure to meet with your doctor to understand your conditions in order to accurately answer a medical questionnaire.”

Deductibles

At AMA Travel, we offer optional deductibles to lower the upfront cost of your travel insurance policy. If you choose to take a deductible, the higher the deductible, the lower the premium.

Be sure to include the deductible amount in your trip budget, just in case you have a medical emergency. “If you have a $1,000 deductible on your policy,” says Page, “you need to be able to afford that because you’re ultimately responsible for the first $1,000 USD of a claim.”

Know your conditions, exclusions and benefits, she advises. “Reading through all the details can give you peace of mind that you’ve got the right coverage.”

Visit amatravel.ca/expert-centre to connect with an AMA Travel counsellor.

AMA Travel Insurance, an Orion Travel Insurance product, is underwritten by Echelon Insurance. Certain exclusions, limitations and restrictions apply.

Sowing the seeds of Alberta’s future

IF YOU WANT TO IMAGINE what Alberta will look like in 20 years, look to our youth. It’s the children of today who will shape what Alberta becomes, so it’s important that we support them as they grow into the stewards of tomorrow. One of the best ways to do that is to teach them where food comes from. That’s where AMA’s new online School Garden Studio comes in.

Explaining to a student how a tomato plant grows is one thing. Seeing that student thoughtfully cultivate a thriving indoor tower garden, sampling or sharing the bright red fruit right off a vine they’ve tended themselves is a lived experience they won’t easily forget.

And that’s the aim of the School Garden Studio, which is supported by the AMA Community Foundation. The studio invites teachers to connect with a blossoming network of experts and peers working to help students nurture growing spaces within their own classrooms. Being involved with a school garden gives students the opportunity to get their hands dirty through all stages of the experience—planning, seeding, maintaining, harvesting and, eventually, even tasting— and yes, also sharing—the fruits of their labours.

It’s that sharing aspect that AMA hopes to help teachers with most of all. Sharing knowledge. Sharing healthy food. Sharing a love for the communities we call home. So, when we ask the tweens and teens of today what a future Alberta will look like, hopefully, they’re inspired to say it’ll look like a community that cares.

Hands-On Learning Visit schoolgardens.ama.ab.ca and let your local educators know about the new AMA Garden Studio.

Testing, Testing

Getting your battery and tires road-worthy is just a call away

SPRING IS A BUSY TIME—don’t spend it in a shop’s waiting room. Get a technician to come to you via AMA’s Mobile Tire Change and Mobile Battery services. Members can enjoy the convenience of both services at home.

TIRES

Winter tires are made from a rubber compound that remains more elastic and grips the road surface in cold weather. That makes them more susceptible to wear and damage in warm-weather road conditions. Switch up from winter tires when temperatures are consistently above 7°C. AMA members in Calgary, Edmonton, Sherwood Park, St. Albert, Grande Prairie, Medicine Hat, Lethbridge and Red Deer can visit ama.ab.ca/tirechange to book a mobile tire change at home or wherever they want the service done.

BATTERY

When temperatures drop approximately below –20°C, battery voltage is significantly reduced. This means your battery works harder in cold weather to get your engine started. It’s important to test the battery annually—try to make it a spring-maintenance habit—especially if the battery is more than three years old. Appointments are available in Edmonton, Calgary, St. Albert and Sherwood Park, but battery service is available on-demand in other locations province-wide. If the battery is replaced, this will not count as one of your roadside calls. Visit ama.ab.ca/batterytest for more information and to book.

While AMA members can only book these services separately, both battery and tire teams are ready to answer the call.

PHOTOGRAPH: ROMAN ODINTSOV/ PEXELS ILLUSTRATIONS: BELOZERSKY/ i STOCK

AMA History Spotlight

Celebrating 100 Years of AMA

Ahead of AMA’s 100th anniversary in 2026, we want to start sharing some of the moments that serve as the foundation of our legacy—those significant events that shaped AMA and Alberta, the small but noteworthy interactions that made a member’s day, as well as fascinating happenings that stand out in our storied history.

Since our start in 1926, AMA has always been there to advocate for safer roads. That’s why the first story we’re sharing is the story of AMA’s Motorcycle Patrol, one of the organization’s initial efforts to help Albertans stranded on the roads. But this is just one small moment from AMA’s (nearly) 100-year legacy of Albertans helping Albertans, of being there to protect what matters most.

Highway Rescue on Two Wheels

When you think of AMA, one of the first things that comes to mind may be a tow truck arriving to help when you’re stranded. And that image has always been a part of AMA. In spring 1927, just one year after its formation, AMA offered its members and affiliates a list of six garages across the province that could send out repair trucks to help stranded motorists. That early roadside assistance service worked the way it still works today—an AMA service operator would get the stalled car running or tow it back to the nearest AMA-associated garage for repairs.

But it was a decade later, in 1937, when AMA launched one of its more unique services that would have caught the eyes of Alberta motorists as they explored the province’s highways— the AMA Motorcycle Patrol.

The concept of the AMA Motorcycle Patrol was straightforward. Motorcycle riders would travel Alberta highways during the summer months and offer help and safety warnings to drivers

The concept of the AMA Motorcycle Patrol was straightforward. Motorcycle riders would travel Alberta highways during the summer months and offer help and safety warnings to drivers. In the ’30s, getting assistance on Alberta’s roads could prove difficult. There was little opportunity to make a phone call if you got stranded in a remote area. The AMA Motorcycle Patrol was the answer, not only to those communication issues but also to concerns over vehicle maintenance and reliable highways. Launching the patrol supported AMA’s overall commitment to better public safety, a commitment that remains to this day.

The first AMA highway patroller was George Taylor, who used his own Harley-Davidson for the job and received a salary of $40 a month, along with a gas and oil allowance. When the program launched, one of the most common issues being flagged to Alberta motorists by the patrol was cars not maintaining their tail lights. In those days, lights tended to break due to the rattling they suffered, thanks to Alberta’s poor roads.

The AMA Motorcycle Patrol program continued until it was paused in 1941, during the Second World War, before being reinstated six years later. However, it was a short return; during its final run, the program ended in 1953.

AMA’s emergency road service was then expanded to meet the needs of a rapidly growing membership. Today, AMA’s Roadside Assistance network helps save drivers at the roadside every 67 seconds, and our operators tow 200,000 vehicles each year.

Be part of history. If you have a story about an experience you had with AMA or a suggestion for a topic you’d like to learn about when it comes to our history, please email AMA100@ama.ab.ca

SOME THINGS ARE WORTH THE INVESTMENT.

Your Business.

Established in…

Need some help setting up a new side hustle?

An AMA business registries specialist is here for you

STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS can be a dream come true. Following your passion can mean setting your own hours, more freedom and maybe a customized home office. It may, however, feel a little daunting to start that side hustle. “It can be hard knowing that you might have to be the only one driving your business toward success,” says Laura Edmonds, an AMA business registries specialist. “Business owners have to be organized for both the work that they do for their customers and all the behind-the-scenes paperwork.”

You’re not alone in your quest to start a new adventure. AMA is keen to support local business owners and has a team of business registries specialists ready to help guide entrepreneurs through many of the steps required to set up and maintain a small business.

That includes taking that first step. The specialists can help you register your business as either a trade name, partnership or an incorporation.

Driver education is one of them.

AMA’s New Driver program teaches key driving skills from expert instructors, so your new driver gains the knowledge needed to become a safe, confident driver.

Call 1.833.374.8733 or visit ama.ab.ca/NewDriver today.

Make sure they drive safer with AMA. Register today so they can be in the driver’s seat by summer.

According to Edmonds, some common questions business registries specialists get include the following: What is the difference between a trade name and an incorporation? What is a share structure? What should I name my business? The specialists can address these and any other questions about making your side hustle thrive.

Once you’re up and running, business registries specialists stay on your team to help keep things running smoothly. Their services include filing annual returns, changing your business address, updating director and shareholder information and business dissolutions.

Is your business going through a period of change?

Business registries specialists can help with that, too. They can change the name of your business or share structure, and perform business amalgamations. “Having someone with knowledge to answer your questions or help direct you to a resource to answer your questions can save time, energy and money for new business owners,” Edmonds says. “Knowing that there is a friendly face on the other side of the desk can make these situations less intimidating and stressful.”

Visit ama.ab.ca/registries/business to set up an appointment with an AMA business registries specialist today.

Stack and Save

How to make the most of your AMA membership rewards

WITH AN AMA MEMBERSHIP, you can save and get rewarded by shopping at any of our 165,000 partner locations worldwide— in-person or online. But you can also stack your rewards, combining up-front savings with AMA reward dollars back to save even more.

Let’s take a trip to Jasper to see how stacking works.

Buy a Parks Canada Pass

AMA members save $10 on an annual family pass. Stack by paying for annual pass with 2% back using a credit card. (Stacking: $2.70.)

Fuel up at Shell

Save and stack even further by using a credit card with cash-back rewards.

Dinner at Montana’s

Save 3¢ per litre at Shell. That’s roughly $5 for two average tanks of gas. Get 2% back using a credit card. Stay at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Visit Canadian Rockies Miette Hot Springs

AMA Members save up to 20% on room rates.

Save 15% on admission, which saves $2.50.

Ways to save: Learn more about all of AMA’s reward partners at ama.ab.ca/rewards.

Tour the town with Pedego Electronic Bikes

Save up to 15%, which is $13.50 off a $90 day rental.

Sign up once. We’ll do the rest.

Sign up for your automatic vehicle registration renewal and we’ll mail your registration to you on time, every year.

Visit

Get 5% cash back with the Ultimate Dining Card purchased at any AMA centre. And AMA members also save 10% when you present your membership card ($100 gift card; $5 back in rewards dollars, which saves $10 on the bill for a $15 total). (Stacking: $2 back.)

to register

vehicles.

Say What?

Learn the common causes of age-related hearing loss

From the melodies of an orchestral performance to the timbre of your grandchild’s rst words, there are so many precious moments in life linked to sound. Clear hearing can contribute to a higher quality of life, making it even more important to protect, as you age. Presbycusis—gradual hearing loss in both ears—is a common age-related condition that a ects one in three adults over 65. Understanding the common factors behind presbycusis can help maintain auditory health.

Loss of nerve hair cells

The sensory hair cells that live in the cochlea—the vital part of your inner ear that senses sound—are what carry information to your brain. These hair cells can be damaged by repeated exposure to loud noises, and studies indicate that the damage is irreversible even after noise exposure ceases. Research also shows that smoking is associated with hair-cell damage.

Genetics

Age-related hearing loss may also run in your genes. If there is a history of presbycusis in your family, chances are it may increase your risks.

Diet

While science continues to examine the relationship between hearing and diet, nutritional de ciencies can contribute to presbycusis. In fact, according to a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, a diet rich in vitamins A, C and E—in combination with magnesium—may reduce the risk of hearing loss.

Access exclusive o ers with your AMA membership: savings of up to $2,000 on Select-level Sonova hearing technology* 5 years of free hearing-aid batteries with the purchase of a hearing aid 15% o everyday-listening products

Has your hearing gotten worse?

Regular hearing checkups are as crucial as visits to the eye doctor and the dentist. Take control of your health and well-being by scheduling a free hearing test at a Connect Hearing location near you.

Book your hearing evaluation today. Visit connecthearing.ca/CAA or call 1.888.486.0177.

Pick. Paint. Visit colour.Dulux.ca to order large, 8”× 8” swatches of Limitless or any of your favourite paint colours.

Vision by Dulux BIG paint colour swatches help you envision your next paint project, right at home. We’ve made picking paint colours easier! The power of a primary. The essence of a neutral.

PLUS get 25% o� any Dulux manufactured product & earn 3% in CAA Dollars® when you swipe your CAA card at your local Dulux Paints store. Visit Dulux.ca/CAA for details.

Steering into the Season

DRIVING IN THE SPRINGTIME can be a breath of fresh air after a long cold winter. It’s exciting to get out there once the ice and snow are gone and enjoy the drive. But no matter the weather, it’s always important to stay vigilant: spring presents unique driving challenges due to unpredictable weather. It’s vital that drivers continue to follow road safety rules and keep vehicles in top working condition. Here are some important things to consider for spring driving:

• Keep your vehicle ready to face any kind of weather. Check that all exterior lights are clean and functioning, ensure tires are inflated to the proper psi, and keep winter tires on until the temperature is consistently above 7°C.

• Watch for more pedestrians (who doesn’t love a nice spring walk?). And even with the extra daylight, remember you still need to be cautious in school and playground zones. Spring also means an increase in vulnerable road users, such as cyclists, motorcyclists and maintenance crews working at the side of the road. Drive with care.

• Be attentive for wildlife, especially on the highways, as animals emerge from hibernation and search for food.

Don’t Risk It

Safe driving means cutting out your risky behaviours

MANY DRIVERS think clear conditions mean safe roads. But the snow melting doesn’t reduce the risks of driving, and in fact, most collisions in Alberta occur in dry, good weather conditions.

“There’s a misconception that driving suddenly becomes safer in summer,” says Dominic Schamuhn, manager of advocacy at the Alberta Motor Association. “But the reality is that every day of the year, driving is one of the riskiest things we do.”

All year, you can increase your safety by avoiding risky driving behaviours. And when it comes to driving safely, two notable factors are completely in your control—speeding and driving distracted.

Visit ama.ab.ca/RiskyDriving to learn more.

• Be aware of meltwater and sudden rains that can lead to floods or sheets of water that can cause your vehicle to hydroplane. To prevent this, reduce speed and drive slightly to the left or right of ruts on the road. Avoid flooded streets and large puddles, as deep water can cause an engine stall.

Some springtime vigilance on the road can help you truly enjoy the season—safely.

Visit ama.ab.ca/articles/spring-driving-safety-tips for more advice on spring driving.

SPEEDING Speeding was the top concern of AMA members, according to the results of a recent AMA Member Opinion Survey. And they’re right to think so—in Alberta, more than one in four fatal collisions involves speeding. But research by AMA also shows many drivers don’t abide by the rules they claim to support—while 82 percent of Albertans say that speeding is “never acceptable” on residential roads, 52 percent admit to doing it anyway.

Schamuhn notes that one of the reasons speeding is risky is because it increases the distance that you need in order to stop safely, even in perfect weather conditions. Stay mindful of the speed limit and, if you’re on a highway, you can consider taking advantage of cruise control.

DISTRACTED DRIVING Technology and other distractions are a reality nowadays, but when you’re behind the wheel, driving needs your full attention. Whether it’s planning your route, sending that last-minute text or queuing up your road-trip playlist, Schamuhn recommends drivers look after those tasks before they get on the road, “so you’re able to dedicate your full attention to the task at hand, which is safely operating your vehicle.”

Even though 83 percent of Albertans perceive distracted driving to be a threat to their personal safety, fully 26 percent of them think they can do it without risk, which Schamuhn notes isn’t true. “The reality is, no matter how confident a driver you are, safe driving requires your full attention.”

SHOP. SPEND. SAVE.

Save money on things you’re already buying.

AMA members enjoy savings wherever they go. Save at over 165,000 partners worldwide on everything from groceries and gas, to hotels, restaurants, shopping, and more. Plus, you’ll earn 5% in reward dollars on every gift card you buy from AMA.

Don’t miss out! Visit ama.ab.ca/earnings to take advantage of the savings.

Safe House: How to Protect Your Home While You’re Away

Whether you’re away for a few days or a couple of months, keep your home safe with these helpful tips:

Turn off the main water valve and drain the pipes or have a trusted friend or neighbour check on your home. Many home insurance policies require that you have someone check on your vacant house every few days. Consider installing a centrally monitored temperature alarm.

Unplug appliances. You’ll save on power and also keep your home safe if there’s a surge.

Close the blinds, lock the garage and stow valuables out of sight.

Don’t share too much on social media. The more you broadcast that you’re away, the more people know your home is vacant.

Visit

Make your home look lived-in. Use lights with timers or a smart-lighting system. Arrange for the post office to reroute your mail or get a neighbour to collect it at your house. If there’s still snow on the ground, get someone to shovel your walkway.

Keep your thermostat set at 15°C or higher.

Check your insurance policy for any requirements involving homeowners being away. If you’re in a condominium, inform the concierge and/or condo management that you will be away.

STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS?

Running a business takes a lot of work. Our dedicated team of specialists are here to help. With a wealth of knowledge, our experts have the answers to all your questions, about things like: An AMA Business Registries Specialist can help you succeed.

• Registering a business

• Selecting a business structure

• NUANS search

• Naming a business

• Filing an annual return

• Changing corporate records

• Changing a business structure, and so much more.

Visit ama.ab.ca/BusinessRegistries to book a time to chat with your specialist and turn your big dreams into your next business adventure.

On Course for Confidence

Benefit from the best driving instructors in the business with AMA’s driving school

Learning to drive can be nerve-wracking for both new drivers and those who love them. Thankfully, AMA Driver Education is here to support new drivers with its world-class driving school. Its popularity, however, means it can get quite busy when high schools are out for the summer. That makes spring the perfect time for new drivers to sign up for lessons. Demand isn’t quite so high, so learners have more scheduling flexibility.

AMA’s driving lessons are so sought-after because the highly trained instructors are kind, caring and truly empathetic. Each instructor is licensed with Alberta Transportation and reassessed twice a year to ensure they’re providing the best instruction possible. Plus, they have all the most up-to-date knowledge

on traffic laws and rules. That’s why you know your young driver is in trusted hands. AMA instructors have the experience to guide nervous new drivers to the road of independence; they teach more than 7,000 new and 6,500 experienced drivers each year.

“We are confidence builders,” says Mark Pasternak, AMA Driver Education’s supervisor of novice instruction. “We help students with a wide variety of experience and confidence—those who are nervous and not confident, and students who have confidence but need some professional instruction.”

New drivers can pick the instruction mode—and, for in-vehicle instruction, the language—that works for them, whether it’s online self-directed, classroom

instructor–led or virtual instructor–led. All the courses are regularly updated, and learners can also choose how many hours of in-car instruction they want—10, 14 or 20—based on their individual needs. The school offers student-centred learning, adapting to each student and what they  need to become confident drivers for life.

Visit ama.ab.ca/driving-school today to start building the confidence of your young driver.

Help them stay safer behind the wheel (and save some money).

Steer them towards a lower auto insurance premium while building confidence behind the wheel. With AMA MyRide, they’ll get real-time feedback on their driving skills, encouraging safer driving habits.

TRAVEL CONFIDENTLY WITH AMA TRAVEL.

We’ll handle all the details.

We’ll give you great travel advice.

We’ll take care of you before, during, and after your trip.

We’ll save you money.

Together, we’ve got this.

CLASSIC AUSTRALIA

GOWAY

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From $5,342 (land only)

Visits: Sydney | Blue Mountains | Uluru/Ayers Rock | Kings Canyon | Alice Springs | Cairns | Great Barrier Reef | Kuranda | Melbourne | Phillip Island | Great Ocean Road

Includes: Roundtrip transfers, 3 nights in Sydney, 2 nights in Ayers Rock, 3 nights in Cairns, 3 nights in Melbourne, 14 shared sightseeing tours, and 2 lunches.

DALMATIAN ELEGANCE

INSIGHT VACATIONS

9 days | April – October 2024

OUR TRAVEL EXPERTS HAVE WORLDS OF EXPERIENCE.

It’s nice to get tips and advice from someone who’s actually been there. Our travel counsellors have travelled the world and will use their vast knowledge to help you create an amazing vacation.

From $4,853 (tour only)

Visits: Split | Korčula | Mljet | Dubrovnik | Elaphiti Islands | Peljesac | Kuna Pelješka | Scedro | Hvar | Brač

Includes: 1 night stay at a premium 4-star hotel, 7 nights onboard a luxury yacht, luxury air-conditioned coach, sightseeing with a travel director, daily breakfast, 5 lunches and 4 dinners with wine.

Exclusive AMA Member Benefit: Save $100 per person on select Insight Vacations trips 7 days or longer. Restrictions apply.

Member Amenity: $80 optional experience voucher (valid on Country Roads & Easy Pace itineraries only).

Vesna Bozunovic Edmonton South

I love travel tours because they streamline the experience by efficiently guiding you through various places, allowing you to maximize your time and see the highlights of each location. Having a destination specialist or a knowledgeable guide adds immense value as they curate the itinerary, showcasing the very best of each place. Their expertise enhances the journey, providing insights, historical context, and local perspectives that you might have missed otherwise. This curated experience ensures that you get to sample and appreciate the essence of each destination, making the most out of your travel adventure.

Blue Mountains, Australia

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS & PERU

TRAVELBRANDS

11 days | Year-round departures

From $3,359 (land only)

Visits: Guayaquil | Galapagos Islands | Cusco | Sacred Valley | Machu Picchu | Lima

Includes: Roundtrip transfers, 10 nights hotel accommodations, sightseeing with local guide, 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 1 dinner.

Exclusive AMA Member Benefit: $150 future travel voucher per booking.

ISLAND DELIGHTS: GREECE

AIR CANADA VACATIONS

13 days | April – October 2024

Visits: Athens | Mykonos | Santorini | Crete

From $3,249

IMPACTFUL TRAVEL: FLAVOURS OF NORTHERN ITALY

TRAFALGAR (CAA EXCLUSIVE ITINERARY)

8 days | April – November 2024

From $3,685 (tour only)

Visits: Milan | Verona | Modena | La Spezia | Cinque Terre | Lake Maggiore

Includes: Multiple MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experiences, which conscious travel experiences directly tied to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals along with an emphasis on low carbon–emitting hotels, transportation, and reduced total mileage through longer stays in each city. Seven nights accommodation, an expert travel director and professional driver, 1 welcome dinner, 1 Be My Guest dinner, 1 farm-to-table dinner, 1 farewell dinner, and 7 breakfasts.

CASTLES & CLIFFS

TRAFALGAR (AMA EXCLUSIVE IRELAND TOUR)

9 days | October 3

Includes: International flights from select Canadian gateways, domestic flights and ferries, 11 nights of accommodations, 11 breakfasts, airport and port transfers in Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete, half-day tour to the Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum, and porterage.

Maria Blomme Calgary Willowpark

From SINGLE - $6,799

DOUBLE - $4,899

Visits: Dublin | Cork | Blarney | Kilarney | Galway | Cong |

Includes: 8 nights of handpicked accommodations including 1 night stay at Ashford Castle, expert travel director and driver, group airport transfers, Be My Guest experience, 8 breakfasts, 4 dinners, and sightseeing.

Whether you want to see a few countries or discover a particular one more in depth, coach tours are a great choice. The planning is taken care of for you—all you need is to sit back, relax, enjoy the scenery, and let your guide tell you stories from the past and connect them with the present, helping you understand the customs and cultures. No need to worry about where to go and how to get there. Skip the line on the attractions you are going to visit and enjoy exclusive activities that will immerse you in the local traditions.

North America & International Specialists

1.866.667.4777 | AMATravel.ca

Tour Terms & Conditions: All pricing is current at time of printing; all rates are quoted in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise stated, are per person based on two sharing, and are subject to change and availability at time of booking. Offers are capacity controlled and may be withdrawn at any time. Rates do not include airfare, taxes, fees, fuel supplements or insurance (unless indicated). Taxes are subject to change. Some restrictions may apply. Professional consulting fees apply to in-person and phone bookings and are not included in the advertised prices. *AMA Exclusive departure group is based on minimum number.

Cinque Terre, Liguria, Italy

AMAWATERWAYS

Whether you journey through Europe, Southeast Asia, Africa, or Egypt the staff and crew go above and beyond to ensure you have a memorable experience. Enjoy a shore excursion in each port visit, local wine & beer with lunch & dinner onboard, free Wi-Fi, and more!

MAGIC OF COLOMBIA

From $4,660

incl. port charges

Barranquilla to Cartagena, Colombia aboard AmaMagdalena

7 nights | January – December 2025

Based on April 5, 2025 sailing in cat C, twin balcony

Port Visits: Nueva Venecia | Santa Barbara de Pinto | Mompox (2 nights) | El Banco | Magangue | Calamar | Cartagena (overnight)

Exclusive AMA Member Benefit: Save $180 per person (included in price) and receive $25 onboard credit per person.

VIKING CRUISES

Destination-focused and culturally enriching voyages await you. Includes a shore excursion in each port visit, local wine & beer with onboard lunch & dinner, free Wi-Fi, and more.

PARIS & THE HEART OF NORMANDY

From $4,199

incl. port charges

Paris, France roundtrip aboard Viking Seine Ships

7 nights | March – November 2024/2025

Based on July 23, 2024, sailing in cat F, standard stateroom

Port Visits: Paris (overnight) | La Roche-Guyon | Vernon | Rouen (overnight) | Les Andelys | Paris (overnight)

Exclusive AMA Member Benefit: Receive $100 onboard credit per person.

AMA EXPERIENCED CRUISE SPECIALISTS.

Our Cruise Specialists work closely with cruise lines, keep up to date on their offers and promotions, and know exactly what to recommend for the trip you’d like — from destination to the ship to the excursions.

Karyn Gora Edmonton West

MAGNA ON THE DANUBE

From $5,066

incl. port charges

Budapest, Hungary to Vilshofen, Germany aboard

AmaMagna

7 nights | March – December 2024/2025

Based on November 24, 2024, sailing in cat E, standard stateroom

Port Visits: Budapest, Hungary (overnight) | Bratislava, Slovakia | Vienna, Austria | Krems, Austria | Spitz, Austria | Linz, Austria | Passau, Germany | Vilshofen , Germany (overnight)

Exclusive AMA Member Benefit: Save $300 per person (included in price), receive $75 onboard credit per person, and welcome aboard gift of wine and chocolates.

GRAND EUROPEAN TOUR

From $6,299

incl. port charges

Amsterdam, The Netherlands to Budapest, Hungary (or reverse) aboard state-of-the-art Viking Longships

14 nights | March – December 2024/2025

Based on October 22, 2024, sailing in cat F, standard stateroom

Port Visits: Kinderdijk, The Netherlands | Cologne, Germany | Koblenz, Germany | Miltenberg, Germany | Würzburg, Germany | Bamberg, Germany | Nuremberg, Germany | Regensburg, Germany | Passau, Germany | Melk, Austria | Krems, Austria | Vienna, Austria (overnight) | Budapest, Hungary (overnight)

Exclusive AMA Member Benefit: Receive $200 onboard credit per person.

I love cruising because it’s a chance to indulge in the opulence akin to a five-star hotel, basking in luxurious comforts while unpacking only once. Seamlessly traverse various countries from Europe to South America, Africa, Vietnam, Cambodia, and beyond, all while soaking in the breathtaking scenery, making your cruise an unforgettable journey. On the smaller ships, you can enjoy the exclusivity and personalized attention rarely found in larger vessels without experiencing motion sickness. Plus, delight in exquisite fine dining cuisine and complimentary beer and wine during lunch and dinner.

Vienna, Austria

RIVER CRUISE

OCEANIA CRUISES

Aside from elegant staterooms, luxurious spaces, and adventurepacked shore excursions, Oceania Cruises are known for their unmatched cuisines. With a selection of flavours that as vast as the destinations you’ll visit and menus developed by world-class chefs,

Oceania Cruises really has The Finest Cuisine at Sea®

MEDITERRANEAN CHIC

From $7,748 incl. taxes

& return air from Edmonton or Calgary

Rome, Italy to Monte Carlo, Monaco aboard Riviera

10 nights | August 25-September 4, 2024

Sailing in cat C, deluxe ocean-view stateroom

Port Visits: Sorrento/Capri, Italy | Catania, Italy | Valletta, Malta | Tunis, Tunisia | Palermo/Sicily, Italy | Olbia/Sardinia, Italy | Florence/Livorno, Italy | Ajaccio/Corsica, France | Saint-Tropez, France

Includes: simply MORE with free $600 USD shore excursion credit (per stateroom), unlimited Wi-Fi, gourmet specialty dining, champagne, wine, and more.

Exclusive AMA Member Benefit: Complimentary pre-paid gratuities and wine tasting.

CUNARD

The world is yours to explore, and Cunard can take you. With luxurious ships offering culinary delights, afternoon tea, and gala evenings, onboard elegance takes on an air of distinction. Whether you’re travelling for days or months, Cunard provides ample opportunity to embrace an unrivaled sense of freedom and possibility amidst the fascinating destinations and cultures you’ll encounter on your trip.

Tracey Zipp Calgary Main

ALASKA

From $1,056 + $338 taxes & fees

Vancouver roundtrip aboard Queen Elizabeth

10 nights | June – September 2024

Based on August 20, 2024, sailing in cat IF, interior stateroom

Port Visits: Sitka | Juneau | scenic cruising Glacier Bay | Haines | scenic cruising Tracy Arm Fjord | scenic cruising Misty Fjord | Ketchikan

Exclusive AMA Member Benefit: Receive up to $400 USD onboard credit per stateroom on select sailings and stateroom categories, enhanced afternoon tea service, and complimentary specialty dining.

I love cruising because it’s the best way to see multiple destinations in one vacation. The ships are amazing, and you can be as busy as you want with all the activities, lectures, and Broadway-style shows, or just relax by the pool reading a book and enjoying a wonderful cocktail. Plus, the food is incredible. It’s a great place to indulge in culinary experiences.

EXTRAVAGANT FAR EAST

From $12,148 incl. taxes

& return air from Edmonton or Calgary

Hong Kong, China to Bali, Indonesia aboard Regatta

20 nights | June 3-23, 2025

Sailing in cat D, ocean-view stateroom

Port Visits: Hanoi/Ha Long Bay, Vietnam (overnight) | Hue/Chan May, Vietnam | Saigon/Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (overnight) | Sihanoukville, Cambodia | Bangkok, Thailand (overnight) | Ko Samui, Thailand | Singapore, Singapore (overnight) | Semarang/Java, Indonesia | Surabaya, Indonesia | Bali/Benoa, Indonesia (overnight)

Includes: simply MORE with free $1,000 USD shore excursion credit (per stateroom), unimited Wi-Fi, gourmet specialty dining, champagne, wine, and more.

Exclusive AMA Member Benefit: Complimentary pre-paid gratuities and wine tasting.

TRANSATLANTIC CROSSING

From $1,485 + $108 taxes

New York, USA to Southampton, England (or reverse)

aboard Queen Mary 2

7 nights | May – December 2024/2025

Based on October 25, 2024, sailing in cat IF, interior stateroom

Embark on an iconic sailing aboard the Queen Mary 2 as you cross the Atlantic Ocean in ultimate style. Embrace the freedom of the sea where you have time to do as much (or as little) as you please.

Exclusive AMA Member Benefit: Receive up to $400 USD onboard credit per stateroom on select sailings and stateroom categories, enhanced afternoon tea service, and complimentary specialty dining.

Cruise Specialists

1.866.989.6594 | AMATravel.ca/Cruises

Cruise Terms & Conditions: Fares listed are for cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy (unless otherwise specified) and are subject to availability at time of booking. Discount offers are included in the listed price. Land programs, airfare, taxes, government fees, port charges and gratuities are not included unless otherwise stated. AMA member benefits are applicable to select sailings and categories. Maximum two onboard credits per stateroom. Offers are capacity controlled and may be withdrawn at any time. Valid on new bookings only and subject to availability and may not be combined with other offers. Some restrictions may apply. See applicable supplier brochures for terms, conditions and definitions that apply to all bookings and special offers. Professional consulting fees apply to in-person and phone bookings and are not included in the advertised prices. Additional terms and conditions apply, see AMA Travel for full details. Oceania Cruises Ships’ Registry: Marshall Islands. © 2024 Cunard Ships’ Registry: Bermuda.

Saigon, Vietnam

OCEAN CRUISE

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

Make a Splash

This glacier-fed turquoise lake is named after a former Banff National Park guide and is one of the requisite spots to visit on the Icefields Parkway. Enjoy a panoramic view of the wolf head-shaped lake while trekking the surrounding 2.4-kilometre trail.

Think you know where this is? Send us a note at amainsider@ama.ab.ca with your guess and check amainsider.com for the location reveal. Have you been here? Send us your stories and photos for a chance to be featured online and in the next issue.

PHOTOGRAPH: AIMINTANG/ i STOCK

Used batteries contain toxic materials that can cause ecological harm if they end up in landfill, so they should never be thrown out. The Recycle Your Batteries, Canada! program makes it easy to recycle instead.

Just collect them in a non-metal container, protect the terminals with electrical tape, and drop them off at one of our 10,000 convenient drop-off locations. You can find them at major retailers and municipal depots.

Learn more at RecycleYourBatteries.ca

Customers are free to purchase natural gas services or electricity services from a retailer of their choice. For a list of retailers, visit ucahelps.alberta.ca or call 310-4822 (toll-free in Alberta).