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MOVE-IN READY LUXURY IN UNIVERSITY DISTRICT GUILD Townhomes offer a rare opportunity to own one of the most distinctive luxury townhomes in University District. Featuring private elevators, rooftop patios, double-car garages, and elevated designer finishes, these townhomes offer exceptional space, comfort, and everyday convenience.

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Where Canmore Becomes Home. Spring Creek is redefining new development in the area, thoughtfully designed communities built for how people actually want to live.

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ASIAN HIGHLANDS, THE FIRST CHAPTER OF IMAGINE ASIA, IS NOW OPEN. Asian Highlands sees the return of red pandas and snow leopards—two familiar and beloved species. Joining them is the Sichuan takin, a goat-antelope species making its Calgary debut. From towering peaks to monsoon-soaked conifer forests and the mountain wetlands in between, the eastern Himalayas are one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. This remarkable landscape is the inspiration behind Asian Highlands, a new area now open to explore at the Wilder Institute's Calgary Zoo. Visit V s t tod todayy at CalgaryZoo.com/Imagine-Asia

SEPT/OCT

2026 on the cover Lisa Jacobs

PHOTO BY Jared Sych

contents 118

26 Editor’s Note 30 Contributors

D E PA R T M E N T S 33 High Five Calgary Police Service Chief Katie McLellan works to make the city safer. 37 Dish It The skinny on the Hankki corn dog. 38 Neighbourhood Watch: Crescent Heights From incredible views to the perfect cup of coffee, this community offers plenty for both residents and visitors. 40 How to Localize Your Dog Supplies Treat your pooch to local treats, bandanas, collars and more. 42 Agenda Fun things to do, see and hear in September and October.

FE AT UR ES

170 Decor: Favourite Spaces A mod-revival design preserves 1970s architecture and melds with the surrounding environment.

46 Future of the City Calgarians share their hopes for the future. And local artist CONTRA on how Calgary can culturally reinvent itself.

172 Alpine Arts Canada’s mountain towns have grown into thriving arts hubs.

72 Water Woes What the Bearspaw South Feeder Main break means for Calgary’s water future.

176 A Mountain Home Away From Home The Post Hotel & Spa in Lake Louise offers a cozy getaway.

78 Collaborating for Conservation A new chapter for Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo.

152 The Daily Grind The best coffee shops for work, dates and eats.

178 Quintessentially Calgary The Plus 15 walkway system elevates the downtown commute.

83 Art Nouveau: What’s New in the Arts The latest in the arts scene.

160 Calgary's Tastemaker How River Café became the best in show.

92 All That Jazz The Decidedly Jazz Danceworks Dance Centre turns 10.

164 Youth Wellness by Design Calgary tests out the Planet Youth approach to teen well-being.

98 Best Dressed Avenue’s 2026 list of fashion-forward folks. 120 Fashion: Style Up Your Life Create your own best-dressed looks. 147 Let There Be Light How The Alex models multi-disciplinary health care.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

F A S H I O N P H O T O B Y S T E V E C O L L I N S ; I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y M AT E U S Z N A P I E R A L S K I ; A L B E R TA B A L L E T P H O T O B Y E L U V I E R A C O S TA

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EDITOR'S NOTE

COLLEEN SETO E XECUTIVE EDITOR c s e t o @ re d p o i n t m e d i a . c a

“GOOD CITY BUILDING ENSURES A SENSE OF BELONGING.”

rowing up Gen X in Calgary felt pretty chillax to me. As kids, we played outside until dark, biking throughout the neighbourhood. In my teenage years, we traded two wheels for four, driving around in my friend’s “nice Reliant automobile” hitting up the mall, fast-food joints and pool halls. Sure, there was the occasional drama and angst, but for the most part, life seemed fairly simple. Now, as a mom of a tween and teen — and with my frontal lobe fully developed — I’m acutely aware that growing up is complex. The advent of the internet and social media has definitely complicated things. Life is no longer limited to what’s happening in your little circle, and broadcasting so much of our lives online causes the stakes to feel unnecessarily high. With rising anxiety and depression among youth, I continually wonder not just if I’m doing enough, but if collectively we’re all doing enough to support our kids to be healthy and happy. So, I was excited to learn about Planet Youth, a global initiative to improve the social, physical and emotional landscape of cities for young people. Writer Jacquie Moore explores this approach to teen well-being in her story on page 164, where she looks at what Calgary is doing to help our youth feel safe and like they belong. After all, good city building ensures a sense of belonging, which is what our Future of the

City content (starting on page 46) is all about. We asked Calgarians to share their hopes as the city zooms toward two million people. And we partnered with Calgary on Purpose, a group dedicated to connecting Calgarians to live well together, to examine how the city can reimagine itself moving forward. That’s also why we’re pleased to present our Future of the City event on October 6 at Centennial Place with like-minded organizations like Hunter Hub for Entrepreneurial Thinking. "Every day, I'm reminded that Calgary's greatest asset is our people — the founders, builders and problem-solvers — that walk through our doors at the Hunter Hub, the next-gen leaders who represent a city that isn't waiting for the future to arrive. They're creating it now,” says Guy Levesque, Hunter Hub’s executive director. And, in our fair city, you can make a difference and look great doing so. That's evidenced by the active and fashion-forward community members making up our Best Dressed presented with Bankers Hall list (see page 98). Life’s not perfect, but there are many in our city working to make life better here. Whether it’s in the arts, community organizations or even in our water infrastructure (see story on page 72), this issue of Avenue showcases how Calgarians are enriching our lives, now and into the future.

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RedPoint Media Group 1721 29 Ave. S.W., Suite 375 Calgary, Alberta T2T 6T7 (letter mail only) Phone 403-240-9055 Toll Free 1-877-963-9333 x0 Fax 403-240-9059 info@redpointmedia.ca AvenueCalgary.com Facebook Avenue Magazine — Calgary Instagram @AvenueMagazine Subscriptions (Prices do not include 5% GST) 3 issues: $18 1 year (6 issues): $30 2 years (12 issues): $50 3 years (18 issues): $65 1 year (USA): $40 US To subscribe, visit AvenueCalgary.com/shop subscriptions@redpointmedia.ca Advertising Inquiries Phone 403-240-9055 x0 Toll Free 1-877-963-9333 x0 advertising@avenuecalgary.com AvenueCalgary.com Published six times a year by RedPoint Media Group. Copyright (2026) by RedPoint Media Group. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Canadian Publications Mail Agreement No. 40030911.

We acknowledge the traditional territories and the value of the traditional and current oral practices of the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina and Stoney Nakoda Nations, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government of Alberta (Districts 5 and 6), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.

Publisher Käthe Lemon, klemon@redpointmedia.ca Executive Editor Colleen Seto, cseto@redpointmedia.ca Creative Director Steve Collins, scollins@redpointmedia.ca Digital Managing Editor Alana Willerton, awillerton@redpointmedia.ca Senior Editor Tsering Asha Leba, tleba@redpointmedia.ca Contributing Editors Karin Olafson, Olivia Piché Staff Photographer Jared Sych Editorial Intern Chelsea Cavanagh Contributors Catrina Bowles, CONTRA, Elizabeth Chorney-Booth, Sarah Comber, Marcello Di Cintio, Bryan Francisco, Alyssa Hirose, Alicia L'Archevêque, Chris Landry, Tyler Lemermeyer, Jacquie Moore, Mateusz Napieralski, PARK Production House, Michelle Simoneau-Clayton Contributing Fact-Checker Alicia L'Archevêque Copyeditor Alex Rettie Proofreader Alex Frazer-Harrison Land Acknowledgement Advisors Elder Edmee Comstock, Elder Reg Crowshoe, Elder Rose Crowshoe Print/Digital Production Manager Mike Matovich Digital Producer Paula Martínez Client Support Coordinator Alice Meilleur Senior Account Executive Jocelyn Erhardt Account Executives Nadine Benoit, Vicki Braaten Events & Community Manager Dare Maurik Audience Management Rob Kelly Printing Transcontinental RBW Distribution City Print Distribution Inc.

REDPOINT MEDIA GROUP INC. CEO, Co-owner Roger Jewett President, Co-owner Käthe Lemon, klemon@redpointmedia.ca Director Strategy & Content Meredith Bailey, mbailey@redpointmedia.ca Art Director, RPM Content Studio Veronica Cowan, vcowan@redpointmedia.ca Accountant Jeanette Vanderveen, accounting@redpointmedia.ca We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta.

Avenue is a proud member of the Alberta Magazine Publishers Association, Magazines Canada and the International Regional Magazine Association, and abides by the editorial standards of these organizations.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

The Avenue Editorial Advisory Council Laura Anderson, Julianne Beatty, Chrysta Benning, Alexis Berezan, Erin Best, Robert Blood, Shalini Bhatty, Brian Boulanger, Victoria Bradbury, Heather Campbell, Danielle Carrafo, Melinda Channon, Hildy Chong, Nicole Claiter, Amy Cooper, Steve Cordick, Michal Cote, Sidney Craig Courtice, Carolyn Cox, Brett Decarie, James DeKryger, Grant Doyle, Tania Drews, Brian Duggan, José Duchesne, Nicole Dyer, Russell Erickson, Meaghan Farquharson, Will Freeman, Janice Froese, Drew Gillson, Briggitte Gingras, Giono Studio Design, Naomi Grattan, Cat Hackman, Kelsey Hahn, Jillian Haneiph, Amanda Hamilton, Lilith Harry, Mark Heard, Lindsay Hill, Alayne Hing, Tara Hluchy, Rameez Husseini, Kyla Ilic, Tania Kaschl, La Klayman, Michelle Lee, Jamie Leong-Huxley, Jolene Livington, Brad Lohman, Quan Ly, Jil MacDonald, Leah Makin, Jodie Masikewich, Kris Matthews, Tammy McCorkell, Loni McDonough, Diana McIntyre, Trina Morison, Heather Morris, Anna Murphy, Jeff Nechka, Melissa Norris, Maxim Olshevsky, William O'Yeung, Viktoria Paulovich, Kelly Pitaoulis, Colleen Pound, Natalie Preer, Rithesh Ram, Becky Rock, Paul Salvatore, Nolandeep Sangha, Ranny Shibley, D Smith, Mandy Smith-Haber, Cynthia Solano, Rachelle Starntes, Janet St Germain, Heather Stubbs, Ian Sutherland, Anila Umar, Gail Urquhart, Edie Vlooswyk, Janet Wakal, Andrew Ward, Christa Welsh, Wendy Winder, Naomi Withers, Kevin Wong, Stephanie Wozniak, Conrad Yeung Members of Avenue’s A-List become a part of our team and have the opportunity to get a seat on Avenue’s Editorial Advisory Council and see their names here in the masthead of the magazine.

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CONTRIBUTORS

CATRINA BOWLES is the events and listings

NEXT ISSUE NOV | DEC 2026

editor at RedPoint, which means she’s professionally nosy about Calgary’s happenings. In this issue of Avenue, she writes about what’s new in the arts (page 83) and Decidedly Jazz Danceworks (page 92). When she’s not busy sleuthing for events, you’ll find her cuddling with her dog while reading or playing a video game. Her favourite local coffee spot: Canela Vegan Bakery & Cafe for a soy milk latte and ham and cheeze croissant shop: Prairie Bazaar thing to eat: Deng’s Dumplings' vegan dumplings restaurant: Ten Foot Henry find: Happy Veggie House in Chinatown for the best vegetarian Chinese food place: McHugh Bluff

MARCELLO DI CINTIO is the author of six books, including Pay No Heed to the Rockets: Palestine in the Present Tense, Driven: The Secret Lives of Taxi Drivers; and the 2026 City of Calgary Book Prize-winning Precarious: The Lives of Migrant Workers. He is also the weakest player on a championship bocce team captained by his little sister. Read his story, “Water Woes,” about Calgary’s water systems on page 72. His favourite local coffee spot: Neighbour Coffee in Altadore shop: The Italian Store (known colloquially by Calgary's Italians as Scarpone's) thing to eat: The Linguine Vongole at La Cantina in the basement of the Calgary Italian Cultural Centre restaurant: Kondattam Indian Kitchen and Bar finds: Alberta Arts Professional Wrestling events, Attack from Mars pinball at Burn Block Social

TOP 40 UNDER 40 Our annual list of amazing Calgarians doing amazing things. SHOPPING GUIDE Where to shop based on results from our first shopping ballot. MODULAR HOUSING Could this overlooked form of housing help address Calgary’s housing demand?

JACQUIE MOORE is a freelance writer. She

SUBSCRIBE by October 1 to get the November/ December 2026 issue to your door. Three-issue subscription $18, one-year $30. AVENUECALGARY.COM/SHOP

is the former editor of UCalgary’s Arch magazine and was a senior writer at the late, great Swerve magazine. When not busy blocking her teens from their digital devices (see her story about youth wellness on page 164), Jacquie spends her time reading, baking and volunteering for Pet Assist for Calgary Seniors. Her favourite local coffee spot: Our Daily Brett Market & Café shop: WINS Bowness thing to eat: Made by Marcus ice cream cone restaurant: Shokunin find: Any book the staff recommends at Nocturne Books, a new, teeny-tiny horror/sci-fi bookstore in Marda Loop

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ith nearly 40 years of policing experience, spanning several areas of the Calgary Police Service (CPS), Chief Katie McLellan knows what it takes to create stronger and safer communities, especially as Calgary continues to grow. McLellan is only the second female chief in CPS history, after Christine Silverberg (1995-2000). McLellan believes CPS must build trust with communities by being accountable and transparent. That’s why she strongly encourages public engagement to help identify problems and create solutions together, and one point she’s heard is a need for more resources. McLellan will bring forward a four-year plan to hire an additional 660 officers to city council in a budget review in November, along with more support for technology, infrastructure and people. Until then, she continues to focus on her priorities for a safer Calgary: community partnerships, traffic safety, addressing social disorder (situations that cause a public disturbance), front-line capacity, deployment models, and staff health and wellness.

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

HIGH FIVE

Chief Katie McLellan A longtime law enforcement expert, the head of Calgary’s police service works to make the city stronger and safer.

HIGH FIVE

“It’s about having people that reflect the community that we serve.”

Since you began policing nearly four decades ago, how has Calgary changed? We’ve grown tremendously. Calls have become more complex. Our members are seeing a lot of guns, drugs and other weapons. With a big city comes big-city problems; there’s a lot of tragedy and trauma. As a young member many years ago, I didn’t see as much trauma as what our members are seeing now. So, I think that ties into why many are off [on leave from front-line work].

So more front-line officers are needed? A lot of our officers are just being reactive — calls come in, they respond. There’s a very small percentage of police officers who have the time to be proactive, build relationships and do investigations, proper followups and engagement projects. We’re looking to boost that so that our members have more time to be proactive.

Is diversity important in the force you’re hiring? We’re one of the most diverse cities in the country, and it’s really important that we have members that reflect the community, that they’re at the table, sharing concerns, building those relationships and trust. It’s about having people that reflect the community that we serve.

4 CALGARY POLICE SERVICE CHIEF KATIE MCLELLAN.

P H OTOS BY J ARE D SYCH

What are you most proud of in your work as chief? I’ve been focused and very specific with respect to how and where I spend my time with the membership. It’s super important to me to have that connection — to let the membership know that I’ve got their back.

What do you love about Calgary? The people, without question. I get it, we’re not all loved by everyone, but we have communities and people that reach out to me on a regular basis. People are engaged, and we love being out, [serving] in the community. That’s why we wear this uniform.

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DISH IT

Hankki Corn Dog

hat began in 2019 as a small restaurant in Bow Valley Square’s food court, serving up Korean mixed rice bowls to hungry lunchtime customers, has evolved into the popular local franchise, Hankki. After opening a second location, Hankki added more Korean street foods to the menu, including the much-craved Korean corn dogs. Hankki has since expanded to 12 locations across Alberta and a food truck. Despite its expansion, Hankki still focuses on fast meals made with real, fresh and flavourful ingredients — and giving back to the community. Its corn dog is the perfect introduction to Korean street food. Test drive new-to-you Korean flavours on a familiar medium. Seven Calgary locations, hankki.ca The Batter “Corn dog” is a bit of a misnomer — the batter is actually made with a mix of rice flour and wheat flour, then fried until golden and crisp. The rice flour gives the batter a delightful chewiness that you won’t find in a regular corn dog. There’s also a slight crunch on the outside that makes these Korean corn dogs a whole new experience.

The Filling You can get the Korean corn dog with a Quote?, variety of different fillings. The classic is Tuesday nights a hot dog made with a mixture of beef andjkl;f chicken, but you can also try one with Xxxxx jkl;fds dsjkl;fsda XXX either half hot dog and half mozzarella cheese, full mozzarella or a full hot dog wrapped in cheddar cheese.

P H OTO BY TKT KTKT KTKT KTKT K

The Toppings Top your dog off with a selection of garnishes. The most extravagant is the “Ugly Potato,” (shown here) where cubes of potato are embedded in the batter before frying. Afterwards, add a dollop of one of a variety of sauces like mustard, ketchup, spicy mayo, honey butter, sweet chili and more. For a true Korean experience, opt for the sugar sprinkle (it may sound strange, but, trust us — it’s a must try).

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

N E I G H B O U R H O O D WAT C H

Crescent Heights From incredible views to the perfect cup of coffee, this community offers plenty for both residents and visitors.

here are few views of Calgary’s skyline as impressive as those from Crescent Heights — something the community’s amenities showcase. Rotary Park hosts gentle pathways and welcoming benches overlooking downtown, along with a playground, splash park and independently operated tennis courts and lawn bowling greens. A 15-minute walk away, Crescent Park offers similarly stunning vistas. An abundance of green space next to inner-city living is but one of the qualities that makes Crescent Heights a desirable neighbourhood. Its long history (the area was founded in 1906) is preserved through its striking architecture — including the Centre Street Bridge (1916) flanked by its iconic lion statues. The community’s heritage is echoed in the businesses that call Crescent Heights home. Notably, the Tigerstedt Block, constructed in 1928, is a prime example of

retail architecture of that era. The block is now home to Tokyo Street Market, serving up fresh-fast Japanese food; Besties Floral Cafe, which offers gorgeous ready-made bouquets, workshops and Blume lattes; and Prairie Bazaar Vintage, a showcase of tasteful vintage finds. The community also hosts an active business improvement area, promoting local shops and restaurants within Crescent Heights and along the borders of neighbouring communities like Bridgeland and Tuxedo Park. Don’t pass on lunch at long-time staple Peter’s Drive-In (established in 1962) for a burger, fries and Oreo-marshmallowvanilla milkshake (you can combine up to three flavours). Flavour fans might also like to dine at Ginger Beef Express (which opened its doors in the 1980s), or try out one of the many newer culinary spots to grace the area — including Bar Gigi, Uncommon Drip and Pizza Culture.

By the Numbers Population: 6,240 Median Household Income: $72,500 Housing Types: Single-detached, semi-detached, row, duplex, apartment Owner-occupied: 40%

LIST ING AT A GL ANCE Listed in 2025 at $744,900 by Lily Chow, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom, 925-square-foot detached house features hardwood flooring and a soaring vaulted ceiling that allows natural light to permeate the space. An oversized detached garage provides extra storage space or a workshop area, while the unfinished basement offers endless possibilities. The updated interior is spacious and homey, and the main living room spans the ground floor while the kitchen is up a set of stairs.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

LIST IN G P H OTO CO URT ESY OF LILY CHOW

BY SARAH COMBER PHOTOS BY JARED SYCH

VIEW OF DOWNTOWN CALGARY FROM CRESCENT HEIGHTS.

Highlights Sought X Found Arguably one of Calgary’s best boutique cafés, Sought X Found offers a curated collection of house-roasted espressos ranging from easy-drinking to acidic and fruit-forward. The coffee is lovingly created and poured, with quality in every smooth and balanced sip. Located in the Tigerstedt Block, the coffee shop has a quaint walk-up window for takeout. Its interior evokes a sense of nostalgia, honouring original aspects of the 1950s building with exposed brick and white walls featuring rotating artwork. Sought X Found turns grabbing a coffee into a sacred ritual. Founded by husband-and-wife team Kitty Chan and Caleb Leung, Sought X Found opened a second location in the Beltline last December. 916 Centre St. N., soughtxfound.coffee @sxfcoffee Le Charme Bistro On the border of Crescent Heights and Bridgeland lies a quaint French bistro offering up delectable, comforting bites and effortlessly sophisticated vibes. Le Charme opened last year, transforming the space that once hosted the original Diner Deluxe. Wood floors, exposed beams rimmed with fairy lights, vintage wallpaper and gilt-framed paintings come together for a cool ambience, and the decadent menu does not disappoint. Fans

SOUGHT X FOUND’S VEG-FRIENDLY TOAST: WIND OF THE WOODS, PAIRED WITH CAPPUCCINO

of salt and butter, rejoice! Waddle home after savouring the biscuits, garlic shrimp toast, pork schnitzel served with spinach spaetzle and mouthwatering desserts such as the NY banana cheesecake. 804 Edmonton Tr. N.E., lecharme.ca @lecharmebistro Urban Thrift Committed to sustainability and fashion, Urban Thrift initially opened its doors in 2007 as a textile-sorting facility. It has since evolved into a chic boutique featuring a range of curated consignment and vintage items. Not only does Urban Thrift showcase quality apparel, it stocks goods and accessories created by local makers. A partner of the Centre for Affordable Water and Sanitation Technology (CAWST), the shop donates to CAWST’s mission to provide clean water and hygiene education in developing nations. 906 Centre St. N., urbanthrift.ca @urbanthrift

Did You Know? Crescent Heights is home to the Arthur Bishop Residence, built in 1912. From 1995 to 2000, it was known as the Black Orchid Manor — one of the few gay-friendly B&Bs in Calgary at that time. Owners Barry Gagliardi, Ron Scheetz and Don Bastian also owned the Calgary Eagle (2002 to 2013), a gay bar that raised funds for

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gay rights and to support those living with HIV.

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

SHOP CALGARY

BY ALANA WILLERTON

HOW TO LOCALIZE YOUR rom the food they eat to the gear they wear, our pets deserve the best. These local companies can help keep your pooch looking smart and feeling satisfied.

FLANNEL DOG BANDANA by Rocky Mountain Dog Your pup will be stylin’ in one of Rocky Mountain Dog’s blue, red or green flannel bandanas made in Calgary. Available in three sizes. Starting at $25. rockymountaindog.ca

FREEZE DRIED PET TREATS by Mimi & Soso Named after the founder’s two dogs, Mimi & Soso makes freeze-dried pet treats that give back — five per cent of the proceeds from each order supports local charities. Choose from more than 40 flavours of freeze-dried treats including beef steak, salmon skin sushi, bison meatballs, cheese, yams and even puppy ramen. $10 to $20. mimiandsoso.ca

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OneOne of of Selling Selling a Home a Home During During Separation: Separation: Navigating Navigating Life’s Life’s Hardest Hardest Transitions Transitions with with Compassion Compassion

elling a elling home aduring homeseparation during separation or divorce or divorce can be one can of be one of parties make partiesinformed make informed decisions decisions and maximize and maximize the value theofvalue one of one life’s most life’s emotionally most emotionally challenging challenging transitions. transitions. A homeA home of their of largest their shared largest assets. shared assets. holds memories, holds memories, milestones, milestones, and years and ofyears shared of life, shared so life, so decidingdeciding to sell can to sell feelcan likefeel closing like aclosing significant a significant chapter.chapter. Preparing Preparing the home theishome also an is important also an important part of the partprocess. of the process. CreatingCreating a calm, neutral, a calm, neutral, welcoming welcoming environment environment allows buyers allows buyers Over theOver years, theI’ve years, hadI’ve the had privilege the privilege of helping of helping clients navigate clients navigate to focusto onfocus the property on the property itself rather itselfthan rather thethan circumstances the circumstances this process. this process. My role My is torole provide is to provide steady guidance, steady guidance, clear clear surrounding surrounding the sale.the Thoughtful sale. Thoughtful preparation, preparation, strategicstrategic pricing, pricing, communication, communication, and a calm, and impartial a calm, impartial presence presence when emotions when emotions strong marketing, strong marketing, and skilled andnegotiation skilled negotiation can helpcan protect help protect the the may be may high.be high. financialfinancial futures of futures both of individuals both individuals as they move as theyforward. move forward. Every separation Every separation is different, is different, which iswhich why establishing is why establishing When purchasing When purchasing a home aduring homeseparation, during separation, having ahaving clear, a clear, communication communication expectations expectations from thefrom beginning the beginning is so important. is so important. signed separation signed separation agreement agreement in placein is place equally is equally important. important. It It Some clients Someprefer clientsphone prefercalls, phone while calls,others whilewant others individual want individual providesprovides clarity around clarity around financialfinancial responsibilities responsibilities and helps andensure helps ensure emails, texts, emails,ortexts, communication or communication throughthrough their lawyers their lawyers or or expectations expectations are understood are understood before moving before moving forwardforward mediators. mediators. My priority My priority is ensuring is ensuring both parties both receive parties receive the same the same with a new withpurchase. a new purchase. information information about showings, about showings, feedback, feedback, market activity, market activity, offers, and offers, and negotiations—fairly, negotiations—fairly, consistently, consistently, and transparently. and transparently. I can’t remove I can’t remove the emotional the emotional challenges challenges of separation, of separation, but I canbut I can make the make real the estate realprocess estate process feel more feel organized, more organized, respectful, respectful, and and My role My is never role istonever take sides. to takeIt sides. is to provide It is to provide objective objective advice, advice, manageable—with manageable—with compassion, compassion, discretion, discretion, and experience and experience every every honest market honest insight, market insight, and strategic and strategic guidance guidance that helps thatboth helps both step of the stepway. of the way.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

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DOG SUPPLIES EXPLORE LEASH by North Range Dogs Take your walks to the next level with a handmade Biothane Explore Leash by North Range Dogs. These lightweight, waterproof leashes come in 31 eye-catching colours. $42. northrangedogs.com

COLLARS by Coconut Collars Show off your dog’s personality with a colourful collar featuring quality hardware by Coconut Collars, which offers 90-plus fun prints including everything from rainbow stripes and florals to pizza and sushi. For every collar purchased, funds go to support local non-profit Parachutes For Pets. From $22. coconutcollars.com

BONE BIRTHDAY CAKE by Cheddar Dogs What’s your pup’s birthday wish? Celebrating with a spelt-based bone cake, of course! Cheddar Dogs makes these dog-boneshaped cakes in cheese and bacon, salmon and yogurt, pumpkin and honey, and peanut butter bacon flavours. The company also makes a variety of treats, cookies and birthday bites. Bone cakes start at $30. cheddardogs.ca

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FUN THINGS TO DO, SEE AND LISTEN TO

IN SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER BY CATRINA BOWLES

Experience Calgary Culture Days September 1 to 30 For the entire month of September, Calgary’s greater downtown area fills with free and low-cost cultural events for all to enjoy. Through City-funded microgrants, local artists and organizations put on microfestivals, art exhibits, workshops and performances to show off the creativity that Calgary has to offer and to connect with fellow Calgarians. calgary.ca/events/culture-days Scare yourself at a horror convention October 3 to 4 For fans of horror movies, Calgary’s Horror Con is the biggest and scariest event of the year. At the Genesis Centre, catch screenings of (cult) classic horror films, snap a photo with a horror film star, get insider knowledge at Q&A panels and shop for collectibles in the vendor hall. horror-con.ca Get inked at a tattoo festival October 16 to 18 Whether you’re looking for new ink or just appreciate the art form, the Calgary Tattoo and Arts Festival at the BMO Centre is a sight to behold. Every year, hundreds of tattoo artists from across the country and the globe come together to showcase their skills. Grab a VIP ticket to beat the crowds. albertatattooshows.com

SEE Bask in the (night) lights September 24 to 26 For one fall weekend, Victoria Park lights up for Night Light. Take in this family-friendly festival, which uses light to create dazzling works of art, including interactive experiences and live performances. See artists use technology to create innovative new works. nightlightvicpark.ca

Sing along to a cult-classic musical September 29 to October 25 Get into the Halloween spirit with Theatre Calgary’s production of Little Shop of Horrors. Follow the story of flower-shop assistant Seymour and his discovery of a bloodthirsty plant. This campy musical has a beloved score inspired by 1960s pop, doo-wop and Motown. It’s funny, charming and just the right amount of spooky. theatrecalgary.com

CALGARY CULTURE DAYS

CALGARY TATTOO AND ARTS FESTIVAL

Catch a movie at CIFF 2026 September 24 to October 4 Presenting a curated selection of over 200 films, including shorts and features from both global and homegrown talent, the Calgary International Film Festival is Alberta’s largest film festival. Following record-setting attendance in 2025, this year’s iteration of the 10-day event is sure to feature many must-see flicks and celebrity appearances. ciffcalgary.ca

LISTEN Connect with podcasters October 16 to 17 PodSummit started as a Canadian podcasting networking conference and has evolved into an all-out celebration of podcasting. Check out sessions, panels and workshops at The Grand and enjoy live shows to see what goes on behind the scenes of some of your favourite Canadian podcasts. podsummit.com

PODSUMMIT 2025

Stream fresh tunes from Souls in Rhythm Long-standing Calgary band, Souls in Rhythm recently released Stranger in My Heart, the group’s first full album in 18 years. Staying true to its funk and soul roots, the band describes the album as “full of hooks, weirdness, neck-snapping grooves, passionate playing and singing, and audacious lyrics.” Listen on Spotify and Apple Music. soulsinrhythm.com

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

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the standard clinical setting. “We spend a lot of effort and time to ensure that the patient has a very comfortable and enjoyable experience,” says Dinger. Rejuvenation Dermatology offers a robust range of services, from early detection and early treatment all the way to skin cancer surgeries, and even a clinical trial department. It also specializes in a variety of cosmetic treatments, such as injectables, laser hair restoration and scar treatments. But what really sets it apart is its scalable support network that ensures patients are seen quickly and efficiently.

EASING SYSTEM STRAIN In Alberta and many other provinces, patients face wait times of months, and sometimes even years, to see a dermatologist. “We've seen quite a lot of strain, a lot of pressure on dermatologists, and on specialists in general, because we only have so few that are graduating each year,” says Dinger. “We can't increase the number of dermatologists, but we can allow the dermatologists to see more patients.” By providing each of its specialists with scaled support, Rejuvenation Dermatology sees about

NATION-WIDE GROWTH Throughout its extensive evolution over the past few decades, Rejuvenation Dermatology continues to see demand, which means there remain more Albertans and Canadians to serve. The network plans to continue expanding into other provinces to help meet the needs of more Canadians, with a focus on expanding into additional remote towns. “We want to be part of a positive change in Canada and want to contribute to a better healthcare environment in the Canadian market. If we can contribute to that, then we've done our job,” says Dinger.

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COU RTESY O F R E JUV E NATI ON D ERM ATOLOGY

ejuvenation Dermatology started with a question: How do we treat more Albertans? Founded in 1984 in Calgary, Rejuvenation Dermatology is a physician-owned and operated network of dermatology clinics. The concept was born from a desire to delegate dermatologists' backend administrative work to a supportive team, freeing up capacity to see more patients and provide better care to patients. That model is stronger than ever today — Rejuvenation Dermatology has grown into a network of nine clinics, with over 50 physicians and 500 employees, meaning there are roughly 10 staff members per physician, taking care of referral processing, patient rooming, bookings, cosmetic consultations, charting and billing. “The entire support infrastructure in the background elevates doctors out of that administrative burden and into the ability to provide more adequate care and see more patients on any given day, and that allows more access to dermatology care for our patients,” explains Tim Dinger, president of Rejuvenation Dermatology. When you enter a Rejuvenation clinic, you’re met with an elevated feel that strays away from

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Civic Imagination: A conversation with Calgarians about the future of our city 46

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

AS TOLD TO TSERING ASHA LEBA

I L LU ST R AT I O N S M AT E USZ NA P I E R A L S K I

t this very moment, Calgary is being shaped into a vibrant city of the future. Terms like city building, placemaking and community are more than buzzwords. They signal a growing recognition of the civic participation needed to build Calgary into a city of tomorrow. Calgary continues to change and grow at an unprecedented rate — the population grew by nearly 20 per cent in the past five years, according to provincial government data. So, what are citizens imagining for Calgary’s future? As part of Avenue’s annual Future of the City coverage, we asked a set of questions to various Calgarians. Their answers reflect their hopes, expectations and predictions about what kind of city Calgary can become. In one way or another, everyone we spoke to positioned Calgary as a dynamic place of opportunity. Across age, gender and industry, amidst a backdrop of economic uncertainty, people are excited for Calgary to step out from under the banner of being an oil and gas powerhouse and into a new era defined by potential in the areas of art, tech, education and more. Editor’s Note: Participants responded as citizens and not necessarily as representatives of their respective organizations. Responses have been edited for length and clarity.

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

As Calgary grows, what should we be fighting to keep? ADRIAN STIMSON is a member of the Siksika Nation, an interdisciplinary artist, and the board chair and external governor for Alberta University of the Arts. “Absolutely, the arts. We have a gem, Alberta University of the Arts. The number of artists and designers that have come out of that institution and now contribute to the economic wealth and the cultural artistic well-being of the city is something that we need to enhance. “Many people have the idea that the arts are frivolous, ‘the poor artist’ and all this sort of stuff, but we’re a profession, and we infiltrate so many aspects of society. The economic reward is in the billions. Yet we never really hear about that. And so we’re trying to change those perceptions. “The arts are absolutely vital to any city that wishes to grow. We need to show people that we are open, that we are doing dynamic things, that we are supporting those in our community to examine the human condition, examine our environment, and examine absolutely everything about who we are from a critical lens in order for us to improve things. And that includes culture. We have a diversity of cultures in Calgary and each one of those cultures needs to be celebrated. “I really do believe that at the core of everything, we are all the same, and that one core belief is that we should have love for each other. In that we can grow and we can flourish.”

JOANNE PITMAN is the Calgary Board of Education’s chief superintendent of schools. “Schools are the heart of many communities. They are places of learning during the day and spaces for connection after school hours. They’re spaces where community groups gather, playgrounds stay busy and fields fill with activity. These shared spaces help bring people together and strengthen the connections that make communities thrive. “We should be deliberate in how we design new neighbourhoods, and revitalize established ones, all with an eye towards creating conditions for relationships. Create the conditions for roots to be set and natural supports built in where families, friends and neighbours across generations can be connected. “As we grow, we should be keeping strong community schools where students can build strong relationships over time and experience vibrant programming. As families seek affordable housing, we see an increase in students who attend multiple schools in one year. “Similarly, because so many of our schools are full, students may not be attending a school close to home where they can walk, play and engage in active transport.”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

“THE REALITY IS, WE ARE NOT PARTICULARLY WELL KNOWN GLOBALLY. I’D LIKE US TO SEE OUR REALITY AS A CHANCE TO WRITE OUR STORY ON OUR TERMS. AND I WOULD LOVE THAT STORY TO BE ONE THAT IS ABOUT RADICAL HOSPITALITY.” COLIN JACKSON

avenuecalgary.com

What should we be willing to leave behind or change? WAKEFIELD BREWSTER is a professional poet and spoken-word artist, educator, producer, and literacy advocate. “As Calgary grows, it could leave behind the sense of this being a small town. “Historically, factually, nostalgically and tragically, Calgary will, through song and story, always remember how it began, how it was, and now, how it’s come to be. “However, the only constant element in life is change, and with growth in population, nationally to internationally, a modern-thinking human can only expect many changes, from the many peoples. “We can leave behind how we used to live. Celebrate in our similarities. Delight in our diversity.”

PAM KRAUSE is the CEO of the Centre for Sexuality. “There is a narrative of who Calgary is, especially to the outside world. People think of money and success in the oil industry. “We need to leave behind outdated assumptions about who belongs in our city. As Calgary becomes more diverse in every sense, including culture, identity and lived experience, we need to tell stories that represent who we really are. We need to make sure that policies are inclusive and systems recognize diversity. These are all things that are evolving and need to be prioritized in how we represent the city.” MONICA ZUROWSKI is the editorin-chief of the Calgary Herald, and the first female editor-inchief in its 143-year history. “We should leave behind any outdated concepts about where change and

innovation can occur. Innovation isn’t just occurring in boardrooms; it’s occurring in schools, in communities, in networking organizations, in small business, in remote workspaces and more.” FRANCES WRIGHT is co-founder of the Famous 5 Foundation, which drove a movement to recognize the five democratic champions from Alberta who worked tirelessly to ensure that women were enfranchised and legally recognized as persons. “Let’s leave behind the requirement for people to be perfect or just like us. Solutions and achievements can come from a variety of sources and we need to be open to seizing these opportunities. Let’s leave behind being one of Canada’s cities with a high rate of domestic violence. We can do better in this regard, and in electing representatives from all three major political parties so we always have a presence and a channel for sending and receiving information.”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

The Hunter Hub is UCalgary’s home for entrepreneurial thinking. Learn more at algary hunterhub.ucalgary.ca

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

As Calgary grows, what are you most worried about? COLIN JACKSON is a member of Calgary on Purpose, a platform for Calgarians to share what Calgary is to them and what they want it to be. “I’m concerned that we will continue to be a city of transients. By that I mean, a fair number of people who have leadership positions here in business, in particular, are in transition. If you’re a head of the next company in Singapore, then your next stop is Calgary, and then back to London. There are folks who stick around, but a lot of folks don’t. And those who aren’t in that movement don’t necessarily want to retire here. There are a lot of Calgarians building Victoria. “Calgarians are often discontented in many ways. That can be a good thing if it’s focused towards producing a more caring, more curious community. It’s not such a good thing if it’s focused on the simple accumulation of wealth. Already we have a very tiered class system. There’s a whole lot of us in the middle who are worried: ‘I’m two paychecks away from [crisis]; if I lose my job, will I be able to meet the mortgage?’ There’s

fear in the city, and my concern is that fear grows and becomes dominant. Then we’re responding with defence, rather than with reimagining.” PAM KRAUSE “I mostly worry about sprawl. We have communities that are so far apart that it is difficult to build a strong identity as a city. It’s difficult to get residents involved in the community and yet social isolation is consistently identified as a problem for Calgarians.” ROWAN FISHER is the executive director of the Calgary Justice Film Festival (CJFF) and a former managing lawyer. “I worry about what can be lost in the push toward scale and speed. Growth can unintentionally flatten a city’s character, prioritizing what is measurable over what is meaningful. There is a risk that arts, culture and community spaces become secondary, rather than recognized as essential to a healthy civic life. For or-

ganizations like CJFF, that concern is closely tied to whose stories continue to be told. If growth is not paired with intention, voices that are already underrepresented can be further pushed to the margins. The result is not just inequity, but a city that loses its ability to fully understand itself. “At its best, Calgary is a place of dialogue, curiosity and care. Without sustained investment in those values, we become more disconnected from one another, even as the city expands around us. Growth should not come at the expense of empathy, reflection or the spaces that make meaningful conversation possible.” REECE TOMLINSON is the founder and CEO of RWT Capital Corporation, a leading Canadianbased M&A advisory firm. “The ability to get in and out of Calgary downtown with ease is problematic. As a result, you have more businesses moving away from downtown, which then creates a hollow centre. A big concern is making sure that the core remains intact — a great place to live and work.”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

What is one belief or principle Calgary should be known for? ROWAN FISHER “Commitment to curiosity. As the city grows and evolves, curiosity creates the conditions for a more thoughtful and responsive future. It encourages people to ask questions, to seek out perspectives beyond their own and to stay open to experiences that may be unfamiliar or uncomfortable. “Through CJFF, we see how curiosity can be sparked and sustained. Documentary film invites audiences to step into different realities, not to arrive at easy answers, but to better understand complexity. It is in that process that assumptions are challenged and new ways of thinking begin to take shape. “A city grounded in curiosity is less likely to rely on fixed narratives about who belongs or what Calgary is meant to be. Instead, it remains adaptive, engaged and open to change.”

COLIN JACKSON “Having a sense of realism, modesty or scale about who we are. Some people in Alberta go [on] at great length about how insulted they are by the lack of attention we get from the East. Okay, but how much attention do we actually pay to the Maritimes? Not much. But more to the point, I spend a fair bit of time in the U.S. and in Europe, and the general attitude towards Canada and Calgary is kind of like our attitude towards Norway or Sweden. ‘Oh, that’s nice. Yeah, you’re probably a nice person.’ It’s a sense of proportion about who we are. The reality is, we’re not particularly well known globally. I’d like us to see our reality as a chance to write our story on our terms. And I would love that story to be one that is about radical hospitality. We are a place where we were welcomed by the original inhabitants. The first settlers wouldn’t have made [it through] the winter if they didn’t have some help from the Blackfoot.”

BOBBIE RACETTE is a MétisCree, 2SLGBTQIA+ leader, and founder of Tapwi.com, which uses AI to help overlooked entrepreneurs access opportunities, resources and relationships. “That belonging isn’t earned, it’s offered. As a queer Indigenous woman who built a company here, I know what it means to wonder if there’s space for you. Calgary has the chance to be the city that answers that question with a yes, every time, for everyone. That’s the city I’m building toward. That’s the city worth fighting for.” MONICA ZUROWSKI “Innovation. It means we’re adaptable, flexible and forward looking, all of which is important in a fast-changing world. Innovation can drive growth in the economy, lead to new cultural offerings and ensure our city remains a desirable place to live.”

“THE TRUTH IS STRAIGHTFORWARD: IMMIGRANTS BELONG HERE. THEY ARE ESSENTIAL TO CALGARY’S ECONOMIC VITALITY, OUR CULTURAL RICHNESS AND OUR LONG-TERM FUTURE.” BYRON NEILES

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

DECOR

A Place to Grow, Connect & Thrive A Highfield Community 54

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

DECOR

New Community Coming to Airdrie Spring Valley is redefining what’s possible in Airdrie with a thoughtfully designed mix of front-attached homes and no-condo-fee Street Towns. Built in partnership with a proven lineup of builders, every home reflects exceptional quality, inspired design, and value that lasts.

Coming Fall 2026 Spring Valley is a place where families put down roots, first-time buyers find opportunity, and community flourishes. With a range of home options to fit every stage of life, Spring Valley is set to become a place where people feel grounded, connected, and truly at home.

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

How do current discussions on immigration influence your perspective on Calgary’s future? ELISE KONADU AHENKORAH is the lead strategist at Inclusion Factor, a human resource and workplace culture advisory firm. “Immigration is one of Calgary’s greatest opportunities and is already shaping the city’s future. Across Canada, immigration is driving nearly all labour force growth and will account for the majority of population growth in the years ahead. As an HR leader and consultant working with some of Canada’s largest employers, it directly impacts workforce planning, early career pipelines and long-term talent strategies in a country with low fertility rates and an aging population. “The opportunity for Calgary is both economic and cultural. Immigration brings talent, perspective and global connection, but those benefits are only realized when people are set up to succeed. That means moving beyond attraction

and focusing on integration. Employment access, credential recognition, community connection and fair systems all matter. “We are no longer just competing with other Canadian cities. Calgary is competing with global markets for talent, investment and innovation. The focus has to be not only on attracting people, but on creating the conditions for them to stay, grow and fully contribute. If Calgary gets this right, it strengthens its position as a globally competitive city, securing major tourism and event bids, attracting investment and building industries that can compete on a global stage.” BYRON NEILES is a seasoned energy executive and is the former executive vice-president at Enbridge Inc. He serves on the board of directors for Enmax and Calgary Economic Development and on the

University of Calgary Board of Governors. “Immigrants have always been central to Calgary’s success. They have made outsized contributions across every part of city life — building businesses, strengthening our health-care and education systems, enriching our arts, culture and sport, and shaping our communities. Calgary’s growth and character are, in many ways, a direct reflection of their impact. Some of the current rhetoric risks distorting that reality and, at times, projecting a narrative of intolerance that doesn’t reflect who we are at our best. I know that a negative view in this regard is held of us in other parts of Canada and we need to turn that around. “The truth is straightforward: immigrants belong here. They are essential to Calgary’s economic vitality, our cultural richness and our longterm future. As Calgary continues to grow, our ability to remain open, welcoming and inclusive will be one of our greatest strengths.”

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“I SEE A CITY THAT’S STARTING TO UNDERSTAND THAT ITS GREATEST ASSET ISN’T ENERGY, IT’S PEOPLE — THE ENTREPRENEURS, THE NEWCOMERS, THE INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES WHO HAVE ALWAYS BEEN HERE, THE QUEER KIDS WHO STOPPED LEAVING.” BOBBIE RACETTE

JOANNE PITMAN “The CBE has 44,000 students learning English as an additional language. These are young people with strength, experience and a desire to succeed and contribute. Their primary need is to continue developing English language proficiency, not because they lack ability, but because language is key to fully accessing learning and opportunity. We need to continue to assess and evolve the supports across sectors to ensure that the future for each young person is one of connection, opportunity and generates the recognition that there is a meaningful and productive path for each newcomer. “Our challenge is to respond to changing community needs at scale while staying connected to each student as an individual. I know we can do this.”

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JUNG-SUK (JS) RYU is the founding president and CEO of Canada’s first multidisciplinary disability arts organization, the National accessArts Centre, presented by TD. “As the son of first-generation immigrants and a father to a third-generation Korean-Canadian, the current discussions are absolutely terrifying. We always say that our strength is in our diversity — clearly, we haven’t done a good enough job explaining why immigration (in all of its forms) is actually critical to the future success of our city’s growth. We also need to look at the representation of diverse voices leading Calgary’s major civic partners — from Werklund Centre to Calgary Economic Development, and, of course, the Stampede. We need to demonstrate this message around diversity with action. It doesn’t work to claim diversity matters, but not execute.”

ADRIAN STIMSON “Certainly, the separatist movement in this province is an issue. The rhetoric that comes out of that is, ‘Stop immigration, ignore the treaties.’ That is a danger. That is divisive. “Often, the onus falls on those who are more moderate and understanding in society to change things, but the other side has to, as well. They have to learn that we are in an evolving world, that immigration is happening and not be afraid of it. There’s this fear about these ideas that what was established is going to be destroyed. And, we look at history, and things always evolve and change. “As First Nations people, that’s part of our being. I often thought we were the best ecologists and the best [at] critical thinking, because that’s what we do: we observe the environment and we

know that things change. So, the importance is to understand that change and create situations where that change can happen in a good way, instead of a conflicting way. The current discussions around immigration don’t help in fostering the notion that Calgary is a safe, welcoming place. “As a Siksika (Blackfoot), we have seen waves of immigration from the beginning. And [in] the beginning, there was a connection, there was a strong sense of co-operation. Then, of course, it ebbs and flows. Our perspectives of people who come here, who are truly open-hearted and truly want to give to this community, give to this province, that’s good. But, if you’re here to come and divide us, I don’t think we want you here.” WAKEFIELD BREWSTER “There is nothing about immigration that concerns me, past logistics. It’s complex and complicated, like every single human being. However, it’s getting done, it’s never perfect and forever must improve. “In many recent discussions, immigrants have been portrayed as the leading problem in health care, social assistance, housing, education and more, which I find to be a dangerous pairing. “I am part of the immigrant story, so I inherently support every story that is for immigration. I’m not an expert, but I know that I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to live in Toronto — and then have the bravery or the willingness or the adventure to move across Canada to Calgary — if my parents did not leave their home in Barbados. The immigrant story is me.” REECE TOMLINSON “We certainly hear a lot of talk from the people we do business with that there seems to be a migration within Canada [of people] moving to Calgary. When I first started my career in Calgary … the city really needed a lot of junior talent. And then a lot of people, they made some money, got established and they went back to wherever they came from. “It seems to me like this is actually a little bit different now. People are choosing Calgary as a place to live, raise their kids — all those things. That’s a very unique thing, and says a lot about the city itself. [Calgary’s] a much more multicultural city than 20 years ago, without a doubt. Do I think that’s really positive? Yes.”

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What are you most excited, passionate and optimistic about for the future of Calgary?

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ELISE KONADU AHENKORAH “Calgary feels like a city at the edge of its next identity, and that’s what excites me most. “Having moved here 14 years ago, I’ve seen how much the city has evolved. Right now, it feels like we’re at a real turning point. There’s a visible shift happening in the number of new businesses opening, the quality of major events and sports events, the growth in year-round tourism, and the diversification of industries from AI and tech to health-care, design and social enterprises. “Calgary has this young, entrepreneurial energy, which makes it more open, more experimental and more willing to try new things. “What I find especially powerful is that Calgary isn’t trying to replicate other cities. We’re not trying to be Toronto, Vancouver or Montreal. We’re holding onto our Western roots while layering in arts, culture, film and global perspectives in a way that feels authentic.” JUNG-SUK (JS) RYU “The incredible generosity and spirit of Calgarians. Whether it’s in the arts, social services, community development or business, we are seeing Calgarians step up in truly impressive ways to meet the needs and support the aspirations of Calgarians around us. Through all of the ongoing tumult in the world today, there is no other city that I’ve seen where it’s more important to roll up your sleeves and try, versus sitting on your hands and seeing if something pans out. This ‘can do’ spirit will always be

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a part of our DNA and will be a critical ingredient in our future success.” BYRON NEILES “What excites me most about Calgary’s future is its resilience and reinvention. Not long ago, amid low energy prices and the aftershocks of COVID-19, some questioned whether Calgary’s best days were behind us. That narrative has proven wrong. Yes, the energy sector has rebounded, but more importantly, Calgary has evolved. We’re seeing the rise of a new generation of entrepreneurs and innovators across technology, agri-food, fintech, life sciences, university research, creative industries and logistics. Together, they are diversifying our economy, strengthening its resilience and positioning Calgary as a magnet for talent, investment and opportunity. What gives me real optimism is that this momentum feels durable. Calgary is redefining itself as one of the most dynamic and forward-looking cities in North America.” BOBBIE RACETTE “Calgary is waking up to itself. I see a city that’s starting to understand that its greatest asset isn’t energy, it’s people — the entrepreneurs, the newcomers, the Indigenous communities who have always been here, the queer kids who stopped leaving. There’s a creative and economic energy building here that I don’t think we fully have words for yet, and that excites me more than anything.”

A D V E R TD I SEI C NG O RF E AT U R E

DRIVING

GROWTH The Calgary Chamber of Commerce champions local entrepreneurs by celebrating their impact through Small Business Week.

algary is home to approximately 63,000 small businesses, accounting for 94 per cent of businesses in the city. Each has an impact that stretches well beyond economics and helps shape the city’s identity. Small businesses are the heart and soul of the city. Yet, they have long faced economic pressures, and over the years, entrepreneurs have had to evolve beyond traditional industries. Through it all, the Calgary Chamber of Commerce has been an advocate and connector for small businesses in the community.

ECONOMIC LEADERS For Melanie McDonald, vice-president of strategic initiatives, partnerships and engagement with the Chamber, small businesses are not simply participants in the city’s economy, but the ones leading its growth. “Small businesses are the backbone of Calgary’s economy, driving innovation, creating jobs and helping build the vibrant communities we live and work in every day,” says McDonald.

“They define the character of Calgary. They support local charities and community initiatives, create gathering places in our neighbourhoods and contribute to the vibrancy and diversity that make our city unique.” With a mandate that goes well beyond hosting networking events, the Chamber focuses on several key advocacy priorities before municipal, provincial and federal governments, from taxation and red tape challenges to workforce issues, competitiveness and affordability. “Our role is to ensure small businesses don’t just have a seat at the table; they have a strong, collective voice at it,” says McDonald.

In today’s economic climate, Calgary’s small businesses face a series of hurdles. Trade and tariff uncertainty, rising operating costs, labour and talent shortages and continuously changing customer expectations are all top of mind, making the Chamber’s work and advocacy that much more vital for those it represents. One of the most important ingredients to the success of any small business is the ability to make connections within the community. “Networking and relationship-building are essential for small business success because growth is often built on trust, referrals and strong community connections,” McDonald says. “These connections translate into tangible opportunities,

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P H OTOGR AP H ( LEF T ) BY AD RIAN S HE LL AR D

CREATING LOCAL CONNECTIONS

A D V E R TD I SEI C NG O RF E AT U R E

P H OTOGR AP H ( BOT TOM RI GH T) BY ADRIA N S H ELL AR D

from new business and partnerships to insights that help owners make better decisions.” This is an area where Calgary thrives, and much of that success comes through a network the Chamber has helped nurture and create. “There is no better environment to build those relationships than through the Chamber network. It’s where ‘old Calgary’ meets ‘new Calgary.’ Whether you're a long-standing member or new to the community, there is always a friendly face and an openness to connection,” says McDonald. “Calgary has a strong culture of collaboration, where entrepreneurs, industry and institutions are willing to work together and support growth and innovation.”

CELEBRATING CALGARY’S ENTREPRENEURS Among the Chamber’s opportunities to connect is its Small Business Week. A citywide celebration each October, Small Business Week features more than four events, ending with the highly anticipated Calgary Small Business Awards Gala, and offers endless opportunities to meet fellow business owners and entrepreneurs. The themes of this year’s event are recognition, celebration, connection, learning and community.

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“More than anything, Small Business Week is about ensuring these business leaders feel seen, supported and celebrated for the impact they have on our city,” says McDonald. In addition to the eight awards presented during the Awards Gala, two new award categories have been added this year. The Avenue Made in Calgary Award will recognize local manufacturing and innovation, while the Small Business Leader of the Year Award, sponsored by Rogers Business, will honour local leadership, vision and resilience. “These two new awards were added to better reflect the range of entrepreneurialism, leadership and impact in Calgary’s small business community,” says McDonald. “A lot goes into a successful small business, and we want to recognize that leadership.” Through its ongoing advocacy and celebration of the city’s small businesses during Small Business Week, the Calgary Chamber of Commerce recognizes the momentum, ambition and long-term growth in the business community. “Simply put, small businesses don’t just participate in Calgary's success, they help create it,” says McDonald. “When small businesses thrive, Calgary thrives.” To learn more about the Chamber and Small Business Week, visit calgarychamber.com

MAKING OF

CITY

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CALGARY ON PURPOSE, A VOLUNTEER-RUN ORGANIZATION THAT HOSTS CONVERSATIONS ABOUT CALGARY, WE ASKED CONTRA, LOCAL FILMMAKER, MUSICIAN AND

CREATIVE PRODUCER, TO JOIN THE CONVERSATION ON THE FUTURE OF THE CITY. THIS IS HER TAKE ON HOW THE CITY CAN REINVENT ITSELF AND HOW TO VIEW CALGARY FROM DIFFERENT — AND PERHAPS UNCONVENTIONAL — PERSPECTIVES. WORDS BY CONTRA PHOTOS BY JARED SYCH

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've spent the last decade building worlds as a musician, filmmaker, curator and cultural worker moving between underground scenes, film productions and public art projects. In becoming a creative producer from the Prairies, I've become obsessed with how cities construct themselves through image and stories. When I work on documentary films, I’m reminded that constructing places isn’t just something we do in fiction. The stories we choose to tell, and how we tell them, eventually become the stories that define a time and place. We are always actively constructing the idea of a place, telling you what to pay attention to. The stories we platform harden into evidence and memory. Almost like we write ourselves into existence. The work doesn’t just begin with imagination; it requires a certain ambition. A willingness to suggest how something ought to be. Places, much like film sets, are often dressed, arranged and lit in particular ways. Working in Calgary, I’ve started

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to recognize this process more clearly, not just in cinema, but in cities themselves. A place is rarely experienced objectively. It is framed through the myths its inhabitants tell, repeat and perform. Calgary, perhaps more than most cities, has long existed inside a very specific script — cowboy mythology, oil wealth, frontier toughness, corporate glass. Even as the city has transformed demographically and culturally, the art direction has remained strangely frozen. The story told about this place, both internally and nationally, has struggled to catch up with the people now living here. Political theorist Benedict Anderson famously argued that nations are “imagined communities,” constructed through shared stories, symbols and beliefs. The same can be said of cities. So many forces shape why we view New York as the centre of the world, Dubai as spectacle and excess, and Mexico City as a place for urban art dreamers. These places were narrated into existence through culture, architecture, art and mythology. Alberta, too, was actively imagined into being. Which means Calgary can be imagined — again.

What many people don’t know about Calgary, or Alberta, is that our rugged, cowboy, farmer profile is also invented. It’s a dream articulated by the Canadian state and sold through ad campaigns like “The Last Best West,” then forged into our foundations. It continues to be the myth people across Canada project onto us. And yet living here has always felt like something else entirely. This place creates the strangest conditions and dissonance — we are landlocked and yet somehow unmoored, like an outpost on a great Canadian lake. Our watch-

tower is presumably built of jerry cans, leather and steel. We push our heads out of the tower in the winter months and cast our dreams into the thick blocks of snow turned to ice, hoping it will thaw soon. We are suspicious and annoyed yet resolute, watching the others fight over our dreams and desires as if they know us better. This is quite a romantic depiction of isolation and, at times, even scorn from our neighbours, but stick with me, I think the tower is crackling with energy, and our outpost can guide passing ships not past, but to our shores.

“WE WERE YOUNG IMMIGRANT KIDS WITH BIG DREAMS, AND I REMEMBER THINKING CALGARY WASN'T BIG ENOUGH TO HOLD THEM.”

et me go back to my youth: languid summers of suburban boredom, slinking around the ravine listening to music from everywhere but here, planning my escape with my best friend. “We’ll run away to France and be filmmakers there!” we’d say, with absolute seriousness. We were young immigrant kids with big dreams, and I remember thinking Calgary wasn’t big enough to hold them. Everywhere I went, I was squinting, trying to imagine I was somewhere else. Back then, leaving felt like the only way to become. Staying felt like a kind of failure, or worse, a lack of imagination. So obviously, the moment I turned 17, I was so very out of here. But then, a decade later, something else happened. Entering the world of music and entertainment, marching into Canada’s contemporary art world, I began to say this, at first as a joke: “Oh, I’m actually from Calgary, Alberta” (casual shrug, ironic grin). And then eventually, while touring as a musician in Toronto, New York City and Berlin, with a certain intensity and gumption: “I’m from Calgary. I can only be from Alberta.” (Cue the theme song from The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.) At the start of the pandemic, in the midst of a music tour in the U.S., when we had to return to Canada for a quarantine that would stretch far beyond three months, my brief stay in my mother’s basement turned into something else entirely. The creative circle that I run with looked at this city and thought, with a glint in our eye — “Maybe we stay.” Touring major cities gave me access to subcultures around the world: artist-run spaces tucked under churches and banks, secret raves, improvised galleries, noise shows, and communities of people held together by sheer belief and restlessness. I began to understand that culture rarely arrives fully formed — it actually builds pressure beneath the surface and moves upward with urgency. The cities I revered were not passive; they were actively constructing themselves, pushing their myths forward through stories and scenes by the people who insist on them. So, here, in Calgary, we looked at the land with fervour, not at all because the city had fully arrived, but specifically because it hadn’t.

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“FOR ME, IT FELT LIKE THE CREATIVE SECTOR WAS RAPIDLY CHANGING, BUT WAS ALSO STARVED FOR ENERGY AND IDEAS.”

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Because there was still space to intervene. If a place can be constructed, then we wanted to be at the planning site. For me, it felt like the creative sector was rapidly changing, but was also starved for energy and ideas. Creatives like us were looking at this landscape with a new set of glasses, ones that showed us that the mountains, the architecture, the political tensions, the prairies and the parking lots could all be gold in the art world. Hilariously, we called our production house FOREIGNERZ — both cheeky and contextual. This has always been a city of foreigners and immigrants. And I don't just mean the ones who arrived in the past 40 years. There was a certain local zeitgeist we were swimming in, like fish trying to go upstream. This city could be anything if you really thought about it. Things were shifting. Power was beginning to move in more complicated directions. Even the traditional powers that be seemed to slowly recognize the value of things beyond the old formulas of oil, finance and extraction. Immigrants informed by a contemporary global ambition were moving in. Artists were reinventing themselves. Young people arriving from larger cities were seeking space to build. Even those who dared to pursue influence and visibility in Calgary were changing. Who was and was not “Calgarian” was changing in real time. We are once again in a moment of building and formulation. I saw myself as returning to Calgary to hoist my flag in the arts sector, both as someone who wants better for the place I call home and, frankly, as an opportunist. I am both a product of this place and the type of outsider this place needs to once again thrust its identity somewhere new. But today, the more intriguing reality is that the average resident of this city is not a lone cowboy, oilman or rugged individualist. The truth is, Calgary has rapidly changed. Perhaps even irreversibly. This is now one of the youngest major cities in Canada, one of the most diverse in the Prairies, shaped by waves of migration, by diasporic communities, by people who arrived here somewhat drawn to the myth, but also to build something else entirely. The average Calgarian today is likely to be an immigrant, an artist, a tech worker, a filmmaker, a student — someone moving between worlds, between identities, between futures.

ometimes, when the sun is out and I’m hiking through Kananaskis Country, fingers grazing bearberries and poplars, I catch myself imagining that the “average Calgarian” might now include someone like me — a South Indian immigrant raised on a cacophony of global noise: the political unrest and histories of my homeland, the dramatic artistic sensibility “otherness” can produce, and the strange psychic atmosphere of the Canadian Prairies all colliding at once. We are on the cusp of reinvention once again. My job as a thinker and creative producer is to show you how far to dream. The reality of our futures lies in our capacity to create the new story we want to tell. Imagine, if you will, that the cowboy is now me. It is now you. We are traversing this strange, surreal land as the singular, odd outpost it always was, but also seeing it as a place of convergence and growth. Because, if you look closely, the infrastructure is already here. Film sets are forming in the edges of downtown, turning the eccentric and unplaceable architecture of this place into backdrops for horror and fashion films. Tech companies are embedding themselves into the city’s core, building systems and platforms that stretch far beyond the prairie. Public art is expanding throughout each quadrant, insisting that culture doesn’t belong inside institutions but across the surfaces of the city itself. Music scenes are forming in

basements, warehouses and strange in-between venues, exporting sound that feels urgent, global, but undeniably shaped by the strange experience of living in this place. Fashion, design, architecture, food — each is beginning to speak in its own dialect, pulling from everywhere else and also here, all at once. It’s subtle. And, more than anything, the siloed way in which this city exists creates a situation where, as new creative noise bubbles forward, it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it or actively vested in the goal of constructing the new story. The most interesting part is that it's being built by people who were never originally imagined in the blueprint of this place.

“THE SMALL PRAIRIE CITY THAT ONCE EXISTED HERE IS NOT SOMETHING WE CAN RETURN TO.”

The small prairie city that once existed here is not something we can return to. We have to set our sights on carving out the new city that is already forming. Where is that so-called Western spirit we’re always invoking? The one rooted in change, in risk, in opportunity? Why does it disappear the moment we are asked to let go of a mythical version of ourselves? You are probably wondering if, in making this grand pitch for Calgary as a budding prairie metropolis, I have ignored the political reality of our province. I think politics actually is the pressure valve, an undeniable part of the script. This is a place marked by friction and contradiction. By a kind of long-standing discontent that has hardened into something loud and, at times, unyielding. You see it in the recurring waves of separatist zeal, in the suspicion of institutions. This place has always felt slightly out of frame, as though it was shot from a different angle than the rest of the nation. But what we’re witnessing here isn’t conservatism the way people imagine it. If anything, it’s something far more volatile. Alberta has never been politically stable. It has swung between strange, experimental movements, socialist farmers, religious/economic revolutions, conservative dynasties and sudden progressive surges. Eccentric new characters briefly dominate the screen and then disappear. What

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Health Science Innovation Centre will give MRU room to grow A proposed Health Science Innovation Centre will provide Mount Royal University room to expand and enhance critical health education and support for Alberta’s need for health and science professionals. Mount Royal continues to grow as a student-focused university fully engrained in the Calgary community and Alberta economy. Demand for programs are growing as well, as the province needs more health and science professionals. The Centre and its building on the MRU campus will unite health, science and technology to advance learning, research and community well-being within a growing post-secondary context. “From the beginning, Mount Royal has responded to community needs. The Health Science Innovation Centre will train critically needed health workforce professionals and scientists, breaking down silos and nurturing collaboration between the frontline workers, data analysts and researchers,” says Dr. Tim Rahilly, PhD, president and vice-chancellor of MRU. Mount Royal’s Faculty of Health, Community and Education (HCE) is a unique collection of programs that have, at the core, a focus on preparing students to work with people, in community, and primarily in the helping professions. The Bachelor of Nursing, launched before MRU officially became a university, was Mount Royal’s first full degree program. HCE programs are flourishing with expanded enrolment, programs and research. “When you look at what is happening in our province, what our students require, what health and science fields require and how they rely on Mount Royal University to produce graduates in these professional settings, it is perfect timing to launch a plan for a new building so that we can serve even more students,” says Melanie Rogers, vice-president of Community Engagement at Mount Royal. Work on bringing optometry education to MRU is also continuing with the University of Waterloo. This prospective partnership is AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

supported by the Alberta Association of Optometrists and the Alberta College of Optometrists and was the subject of a 2025 memorandum of understanding between the universities that may lead to the first optometry school in Western Canada and only the third nationally. Without sufficient seats in Canada, many qualified candidates go to the U.S. to study — and this presents barriers for many potential optometrists. The Centre, both the building and the enhanced programming and education and research opportunities it will house, will further MRU’s strategic plan in a variety of ways, including work-integrated learning for students and community engagement. MRU is currently in the planning phase for the new building, working closely with government and community members on its vision and how to achieve it. Ultimately it will help to deliver the programs Alberta learners need and the top-notch health care Albertans deserve, taking an interdisciplinary, interprofessional approach to health and science education, including MRU’s new school of computing sciences and mathematics. “It’s very much going to be a multidisciplinary, interprofessional type of space. We know that we can’t solve complex problems and prepare professionals in silos and that we need to be attacking and looking at questions in different ways from different perspectives,” says Dr. Chad London, PhD, provost and vice-president, Academic, at Mount Royal. Initial plans for the building include: • Experiential immersion labs for simulations and training • Computational and data labs • Instruction labs and classrooms • Interprofessional education spaces • Public spaces and amenities The health landscape is changing fast with the advent of artificial intelligence, expanded access to data and consumer-driven health care. The Health Science Innovation Centre will be built for this future. It expands on what Mount Royal does best: exceptional programs, work-integrated learning and career-ready graduates. “Alberta expects an increase of more than 39,000 students by 2033, with nearly half of that growth here in Calgary,” says Dr. Jonathan Withey, DPhil, dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology. “The Health Science Innovation Centre is our answer. It’s not just a building; it’s a commitment to increase our capacity by 25 per cent by 2040 to ensure more Albertans can access the education they need.” Learn more about the proposed Health Science Innovation Centre and the vision behind it at mru.ca/Grow. 69

IT’S LIKE, YOUR BACKYARD IS IN YOUR FRONT YARD, AND YOUR FRONT YARD IS A PARK WITH A GIANT FIREPLACE. IT ’LL ALL MAKE SENSE WHEN YOU SEE IT. Explore showhomes. alpinepark.ca

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

ties it all together is not actually ideology, but emotion. A kind of restless, underdog energy. A refusal to be governed simply. The politics, history and conditions of this place are not simple. They are challenging. They can be frustrating, even alienating. But it all acts as pressure. And pressure can be generative. Every major city, whether it admits it or not, carries a kind of purpose within the national imagination. Toronto positions itself as the centre of gravity. Finance, media, scale: a place that absorbs everything and reflects it back with authority. Montreal operates as a cultural engine. It is language, art, experimentation — a city that insists on feeling as much as producing. Vancouver exists as a gateway. To the Pacific, to Asia, to a kind of global-facing lifestyle that blends nature, capital and image. So, what is Calgary?

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“SO, WHAT IS CALGARY?”

Calgary is a generator city. It’s an outpost of contradictions and shifting identities humming with the infrastructure, population, myths and sometimes wild energy small cities need to throw their ambitions skyward and become something greater — a grand city, a true prairie metropolis. This city is growing fast, and it’s still fluid enough to be shaped in real time. It’s a place to test, to tinker, to build up. It’s what makes me stay and collude with the cowboy spirit I spent my childhood resisting. Because if cities ultimately crystallize around a sense of purpose, and their identities are actively shaped into being, then Calgary’s identity can’t simply be to replicate Toronto’s scale or Montreal’s cultural legacy. Instead, we operate as a site of invention. A place where ideas, identities and industries are constructed rather than simply maintained. Where economic and cultural forces don’t sit neatly beside each other, but push against each other, competing for relevance and space, generating something new and perhaps even a bit strange. We cannot keep looking to other cities to experience art and opportunity while our artists leave in search of places that mirror their ambition. A city does not become a cultural and economic centre by proximity or imitation; it becomes one by intention. We have to build the pathways here, so those thinkers and artists — those new worlds — can rise to the surface.

WATER WORDS BY MARCELLO DI CINTIO

LIKE THE FLOODING OF 2013 AND THE DROUGHT-INDUCED WATER RESTRICTIONS OF 2023, THE FAILURES OF THE BEARSPAW SOUTH FEEDER MAIN IN BOTH 2024 AND 2025, AND ANOTHER MAIN BREAK IN AUGUST 2026, HAVE JOINED THE PANTHEON OF CALGARY’S WATER-BASED CALAMITIES. THIS FEEDER MAIN CRISIS WILL INFORM THE WAY OUR CITY OPERATES IN THE FUTURE. IN MANY WAYS, IT ALREADY HAS.

oë Decker always thought the little hillock between 16th Avenue N.W. and the Montgomery Safeway’s parking lot was a bit weird. “It’s like the grassy knoll where the shooter shot JFK,” she says. Weirder still, though, while driving west on 16th Avenue on a June afternoon in 2024, she found the knoll gone altogether, with a gush of water arcing out of the ground in its place. The Bearspaw South Feeder Main had burst underground and exploded the knoll, strewing rocks and debris and flooding the road.

Decker decided to drive through the rising water. “That was a mistake,” she admits, but her car got through. Most other drivers avoided the rising water and peeled off in a panic into the Safeway parking lot to figure out another route. “It was pandemonium,” Decker says. In response, The City swiftly imposed a boilwater advisory on Bowness. The advisory rattled Decker at first. She didn’t know if showering was safe, for example, nor how long to boil water for her tea. “The unknown is really hard to deal with when you don't have enough information,” she says. “You don't know if stuff that you're doing is going to make you sick.” Despite these communication issues, Decker sympathized with city council — in particular with then-Mayor Jyoti Gondek.

“What a crazy situation that must have been to enter into your first term as mayor and then everyone's pointing fingers at you,” Decker says. Many of the accusations crossed the border from reasonable into the unhinged. “My partner's uncle literally thought that Jyoti damaged the pipe herself,” says Decker. “Wow, to live in his world.” The 2024 feeder main failure wasn’t the first municipal water crisis Decker endured (she was in Cape Town, South Africa in 2018 during what Bloomberg News called the “largest droughtinduced municipal water failure in modern history”), and it wouldn’t be the last. In December 2025, when Decker learned on social media that the Bearspaw South Feeder Main had failed again, she frantically messaged everyone she

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

W E$ knew in Bowness and told them to collect as much water as they could. Fortunately, Bowness residents weren’t as affected by the second break, but their neighbours in Parkdale, Point MacKay and Montgomery rang in the New Year by boiling their drinking water. From Decker’s perspective, city council had learned lessons from the first break and seemed better prepared for the second. In March, The City opened the Bearspaw South Feeder Main Community Resource Centre at the Bowness Community Association. The centre aimed to keep surounding residents informed about all things water-related. Decker was most impressed by The City making social workers available to community members at the centre. In addition to receiving information about the practicalities of water, stressed residents could talk to trained professionals about the personal strain the crisis caused. After all, the water main failure wasn’t just an infrastructure problem, but an emotional one.

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

NOT JUST A WATER PROBLEM “One of the truths of working in infrastructure is that no one cares until it breaks,” says Kerry Black, Canada Research Chair in the University of Calgary’s Department of Civil Engineering and associate professor at the Schulich School of Engineering. This truism makes expensive infrastructure investments, like water-system maintenance, a difficult sell to citizens. “You’re faced with a situation where either you proactively invest in something that no one cares about, or you have to reactively fix a big mess,” Black says. “Those are your two political realities.” And thanks to Calgary’s recent “big mess,” infrastructure is on Calgarians’ minds. “Two years ago, I could never have had this many conversations about pipes with people and had people care,” says Black. “They would have fallen asleep.” Despite the undeniable inconveniences of the feeder main breaks, the incident has compelled Calgarians to think hard about water infrastructure. “We’ve come to expect access to water at any time, at any moment, for as long and as much as we want,” says Black. The moral of Calgary’s feeder main saga might be a reconsideration of these expectations. “We're headed towards a time and place where we're not going to have the luxury of doing what we've always done,” Black adds. Climate change has resulted in milder winters, reduced snow accumulation and subsequently lower summer river flows. There will be less water for more people. Sure enough, The City established a new water-efficiency plan in April 2026 to curtail non-essential water use. The new rules allow outdoor sprinkler watering for only half of all

TIMELINE

KERRY BLACK

ICON

1975

Bearspaw South Feeder Main installed, built using pre-stressed concrete cylinder pipe (PCCP)

2004

McKnight Feeder Main break exposed vulnerabilities in PCCP infrastructure

2009

Bearspaw South Feeder Main deemed to require internal inspection

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

P H OTO COURTESY OF T H E CI T Y OF CALGARY

WATER MAIN

“WE'RE GOING TO NEED MAJOR INVESTMENTS ACROSS A HUGE NUMBER OF ASSETS.”

RELAUNCHING THE PIPEDIVER FROM A NEW POSITION IN THE BEARSPAW SOUTH FEEDER MAIN.

“I WAS QUITE SHOCKED THAT CALGARY WOULD HAVE A WATER PIPE THAT WAS SO EXISTENTIAL.”

MAYOR JEROMY FARKAS

households at a time, for example, and only up to three days per week depending on street addresses (but never, oddly, on Mondays). Washing cars and windows, and filling outdoor hot tubs and wading pools, will be prohibited altogether when water levels are particularly low. Other jurisdictions have already adopted such policies. Kelowna, Abbotsford and Mission, B.C., similarly curtail water use. And it’s not just restrictions on the horizon. Much of the infrastructure across the country was built around the same time as the Bearspaw South Feeder Main — and built quickly. Black predicts more failures ahead. “Water. Wastewater. Roadways. Public infrastructure like community centres and schools. All of that is getting to the end of life,” Black warns. “We're going to need major investments across a huge number of assets.” Calgary’s recent crisis should be seen as a harbinger of potential failures to come for communities across Canada.

AN EYE ON THE FUTURE Mayor Jeromy Farkas wasn’t completely surprised when he heard about the failure of the feeder main in 2024. A major water pipeline in Cochrane had ruptured only nine months earlier, and the former councillor and future mayor knew aging infrastructure had been failing in municipalities across Canada. What surprised Farkas, though, was the acute vulnerability of Calgary’s water system. “I was quite shocked that Calgary would have a water pipe that was so existential,” he says. The Bearspaw South Feeder Main supplies 60 per cent of Calgary’s water. “I had no idea. And I was relatively close to the topic as a city councillor.”

2011

Infrastructure Vulnerability Assessment and Water Long Range Plan completed by The City

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

2017

Tactical Asset Management Plan marks Bearspaw South Feeder Main as “high-risk”

2020

Bearspaw South Feeder Main prioritized for condition assessment, but the assessment is prevented by access limitations

JUN.2024 First Bearspaw South Feeder Main break

A SECTION OF 16TH AVE. N.W. SIGNIFICANTLY FLOODED AFTER A WATER MAIN BREAK.

Farkas wants the municipal government he leads to be known as the “infrastructure city council” that confronts the water main issue directly “rather than passing the buck and making it the next generation's problem. Or the next mayor's problem.” And he believes citizens will come on board, even when the price tag is vast. “I think Calgarians are willing to support the investment as long as it's prudent, reasonable and if there's a long-term need for it,” Farkas says. According to the mayor, such efforts exist outside of politics. Eighty per cent of Calgarians reduced their water usage during the latest round of restrictions, which means that most

citizens took part in the collective action, regardless of political leanings. “This is not a political question,” says Farkas. “It’s more like the law of supply and demand. Or the law of gravity.” Perhaps the long-term legacy of the feeder main crisis won’t simply be a shiny steel pipe buried beneath Bowness and Montgomery. The awareness of our infrastructural fragility may compel Calgarians to give their blessing to expensive, but necessary, projects and to recognize the value and vulnerability of the things we depend upon but cannot see. “If there was a moment in time when infrastructure is sexy again,” Farkas says, “it's probably now.”

AUG.2024 DEC.2025 MAR.2026 APR.2026 Urgent repairs made on 21 sections of pipeline

Second Bearspaw South Feeder Main break

More reinforcement projects undertaken to secure the feeder main

Council passes Calgary’s new Water Efficiency Plan. Replacement pipe anticipated to be in service by December 2026

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

P HOTO BY CH R I S D E L A TOR R E , COU RT ESY OF C B C . ; A L L LOG O I CON S F ROM I STOC K

The Calgarian response to the crisis, in both 2024 and 2025-26, impressed Farkas. “Everyone, or at least most people, seem willing to work together as a team to dig our way out of it,” he says. The City is on track to replace the feeder main by the end of the year — a tremendous achievement — thanks to the efforts of workers and citizens. “Not just the guys in the trenches, literally, who are 100 feet underground digging in six different sections simultaneously,” Farkas says. There was also the regular Calgarians who rallied together to reduce their water usage (according to the Mayor, most did). That's why Farkas describes the feeder main replacement as Calgary’s “civic moonshot” — a technically challenging problem to be solved by both experts and regular folks. “It really just shows Calgary at its best, where we're able to bounce back from disasters like these.” An independent review panel struck to examine the feeder main failure found that Calgary’s water infrastructure can support a city of up to 2.8 million people. Farkas believes the population of Calgary’s metropolitan area, which includes municipalities as far afield as Chestermere and Cochrane, will exceed this threshold before the end of the next decade. The flow of the Bow River, however, won’t increase. With the slowing flow of Calgary’s waterways, Calgarians will need to adapt to this scarcity, and not just by turning off the faucet when we brush our teeth — something Farkas confesses he only recently started doing. But the mayor knows that water savings can be found. For example, Calgary loses a quarter of its treated water in its water pipes. “We could choose to take 25 per cent more out of the river,” Farkas says, “or we can stem the bleeding” by patching the holes and fixing the leaks.

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COLLABORATING FOR CONSERVATION DR. KYLE BURKS LEADS WILDER INSTITUTE’S CALGARY ZOO INTO A NEW CHAPTER.

orking in animal care and wildlife conservation is often considered a dream job. At least it’s always been for Dr. Kyle Burks, CEO and president of the Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo. Growing up a short walk from about 10,000 acres of protected forest in eastern Texas, Burks naturally developed a love for nature and wildlife. Pursuing this passion, he went on to study animal behaviour and wildlife conservation, and eventually fell in love with the world of zoos. “I set out on that path in the early 1990s and haven't stopped,” says Burks. “I've been in the zoo and aquarium world my whole career, focused on animal welfare and conservation, and I think I have a pretty cool job.” Burks joined Wilder Institute in January 2025 at a transformational time, helping usher the institute into its next stage. This past summer, the global conservation charity, which celebrates its fifth anniversary this year, announced a new strategic plan — One Wild Future. The plan will grow the institute's conservation impact and involve the community in this mission. “Kyle joined us at a really exciting time when this planning was underway and this new chapter was being formed. His leadership accelerates the way that we're now opening this up and launching this exciting chapter with our community,” says Steve Ross, chief development and

external relations officer. Part of One Wild Future is an evolution of the zoo, which is approaching its centennial in 2029. By 2034, 40 per cent of the zoo will be updated. Visitors can expect state-of-the-art exhibits more indicative of natural animal habitats, including the new Imagine Asia area, now open to guests. The plan outlines ways to expand conserva-

“If I can get you excited ... then that's what makes [change] happen. That's what's going to save species. That's what's going to really change the world.” DR. K YLE B UR K S

tion impact, including increasing the number of species the Wilder Institute focuses on across Canada beyond its many current conservation programs that target burrowing owls, Northern leopard frogs, whooping cranes, Vancouver Island marmots, curiously isolated hairstreak butterflies and more. But Burks and his team know that conservation can’t be done in isolation. That’s why they collaborate with Indig-

enous partners, focusing on social mobilization — a step beyond simply exciting people about wildlife. Part of the social mobilization includes encouraging people who are enjoying the zoo to directly contribute to conservation outcomes. “We want an experience that inspires people,” says Burks. “If I can get you excited, thinking, ‘Wow, I just had this amazing experience, but now I'm also going to make some choices in my life,’ then that's what really makes [change] happen. That's what's going to save species. That's what's going to really change the world.” As visitors go through the exhibits, prompts will ask them to reflect on their daily habits and choices that impact conservation, and provide at-home steps they can take to join the movement. “Inclusivity is the crux of this [new] identity. We wanted to share with our community, and nationally and internationally — with all our supporters — that there truly is a role for everyone to play, and together, this One Wild Future is possible,” says Ross. Burks has championed the importance of conservation his entire career. He and his team know that this is a long game. “If we can create a world where people can coexist with wildlife, we're going to live better lives ourselves,” says Burks. “This is a long game to make these changes work — it's decades. We're in it for the long haul, but we’ve got to get going right now.”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

CONVERSATIONS THAT DRIVE CAREERS

Axis Connects CEO Nuvyn Peters and executive director Alexandra Stante share how dialogue and discussion are the backbone of career momentum.

he biggest career opportunities rarely begin with a job posting. They start with a conversation. Axis Connects, an organization that helps advance women in the workplace, sparks these conversations. At a time when women still don’t always get a seat at the table, or are sometimes given the very first female seat, Axis offers real, honest and impactful conversations that remind women they don't need a flawless path to build an extraordinary one. Here, Axis Connects CEO Nuvyn Peters and executive director Alexandra Stante talk about the impact of having these discussions publicly on their podcast, The Quiet Part Out Loud, and how Axis is on a mission to spark more of these powerful conversations.

What were the early inspirations behind starting The Quiet Part Out Loud? A: “For years we've been inviting remarkable women leaders into intimate rooms to talk honestly about their careers, the tough decisions, the messy moments and everything they wish someone had told them earlier. Our Lunch with a Leader events would often end the same way, thinking, ‘I wish more people could hear this conversation.’ “The podcast was an answer to that. It actually started as a bit of an experiment. We thought, ‘What if we just put a microphone in the room?’ What started as a way to scale one of our most-loved programs has become a way to share the stories of incredible women well beyond our events.”

What is the power in sharing those quiet conversations loudly? N: “When someone hears a leader openly discuss imposter syndrome, negotiating a promotion, balancing family responsibilities, navigating bias or learning from failure, it gives them permission to have those conversations too. It replaces isolation with connection. “So many of the women we've interviewed were the first (or the only) woman at the table. They didn't have someone who looked like them to call for advice or to show them what leadership could look like.”

A: “The conversations that stay with us are the ones where accomplished women let their guard down. They talk about the moments they questioned themselves, the feedback that knocked their confidence, what it felt like to be the first woman in the room or the sacrifices and tradeoffs that don't usually make it into a LinkedIn post. “Guests have shared what it was really like to build careers in rooms where there often wasn't another woman. Those aren't just fascinating stories, they're generous ones.”

What do you hope listeners take away from The Quiet Part Out Loud? N: “More than anything, we hope people leave feeling a little more confident. Not because they suddenly have

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

P H OTOGR AP H S ( LE F T, TO P R IGH T) BY P H IL CROZ IER

What kinds of conversations have stood out to you most?

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

The Quiet Part Out Loud

Leadership Forum Tickets

all the answers, but because they realize no one else did either. Every guest has reminded us that careers aren't built by following a perfect plan. They're built through curiosity, relationships, resilience and saying yes before you feel completely ready. “If someone finishes an episode and finally sends the email, applies for the role, asks for the coffee meeting or starts the conversation they've been putting off, we've done our job.”

Is this your mission across all Axis programs? N: “Absolutely. The podcast is one expression of a much bigger mission. The reality is that talented women face barriers to leadership long before they reach the executive table. That's why we're committed not only to developing leaders but partnering with organizations and contributing to research that helps address the systemic barriers preventing more women from advancing. “At Axis, we're building an ecosystem that helps women connect, grow and lead. Sometimes that's through a podcast. Sometimes it's over Lunch with a Leader, at a networking event, through mentorship or by bringing hundreds of leaders together at the Leadership Forum.”

With the Leadership Forum coming up in November, what can people expect?

together. It's more than a conference; it's where all of the ideas we've been exploring on the podcast come to life in one room. You'll hear from exceptional leaders, have honest conversations about the future of work and leadership, and meet people who may very well change the trajectory of your career. The magic of the Forum isn't just what's happening on stage, it's what's happening between sessions, over coffee, and in the conversations that continue long after the event ends.”

Join Axis Connects today. Membership is free. Connect with a community that’s helping women build meaningful careers through events, mentorship, leadership development and conversations that matter. axisconnects.com

A: “The Leadership Forum is where our community comes

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ALBERTA BALLET DANCER JOLIE ROSE LOMBARDO. THIS YEAR, ALBERTA BALLET CELEBRATES ITS 60TH ANNIVERSARY.

BY CATRINA BOWLES

Calgary’s arts scene is abuzz with activity. Whether it's visual arts, performing arts or public art initiatives, fresh projects or reimaginings of established ones are always taking place. Here’s some of the latest and greatest offerings in the city’s arts and culture scene.

ALBERTA BALLET COMMEMORATES

60 YEARS

The 2026/27 Alberta Ballet season marks the company’s 60th anniversary. Artistic director Francesco Ventriglia has curated a season filled with beloved classics like The Nutcracker, powerful storytelling and extraordinary productions to honour the past while stepping boldly into the future. The milestone season features the 60th Anniversary Gala event, taking place Feb. 11 to 13, 2027, in Calgary — a special mixed program honouring the company’s legacy while looking toward the future of ballet in Alberta and beyond. This production brings together highlights from the past six decades alongside iconic masterpieces and new creations. Through a dynamic mix of classical and contemporary works, the program reflects the artistic evolution of Alberta Ballet and features performances by the students of Alberta Ballet School, offering a glimpse of the next generation. albertaballet.com

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

P H OTO BY E LUV IE R ACOSTA

ALBERTA BALLET'S 2026-27 SEASON INCLUDES BEETHOVEN 200 WITH DANCERS YAROSLAV KHUDYCH, ALEXANDRA ANKER-HUGHES AND PATRICE BERTRAND.

ALBERTA FOUNDATION FOR THE ARTS OPENS ITS

ART HOUSE The Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA) art collection was established in 1972 to preserve pieces of Alberta’s art history. In late 2025, the doors opened to the new AFA art house, located in downtown Calgary, a dedicated space for displaying pieces from AFA’s extensive collection. At any given time, 20 to 25 per cent of the collection is on display at locations across Alberta, so the art house offers a guaranteed look at pieces by Albertan artists — some of which have never been

publicly displayed before. Until Sept. 30, see the exhibition Montageries, which showcases 19 artworks that blend the ideas of montage and memories. Montageries was organized by the Alberta Society of Artists to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the AFA art collection. It was also a part of TREX, AFA’s travelling exhibition program that makes art more accessible by showing it at locations like schools, libraries and healthcare centres. affta.ab.ca/art-house

AFA A RTSH OU SE P H OTO BY DAVID KOTS IB IE , P ER SU ASIO N PH OTOGR APH Y; BU MP PH OTO BY DA M A N S I N G H

INSIDE THE AFA ART HOUSE IN DOWNTOWN CALGARY.

BUMP’S NEW PUBLIC SCULPTURE PROGRAM

BUMP TEAM MEMBERS, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: EMAN SAFADI, RYAN TRAM, PRIYA RAMESH AND ANNA MACLAREN.

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Originally launched in 2017 as the Beltline Urban Murals Project, the annual BUMP festival recruits local, national and international artists to add new art pieces to Calgary’s streets. For the 10th festival, BUMP expands the scope of its public art with the introduction of the BUMP public sculpture program. The new program reflects the ever-changing and conflicting identity of Calgary. As BUMP’s announcement states, Calgary is both “Cowtown and a rapidly densifying urban centre.” The public sculpture program makes this dichotomy visible through temporary art pieces that reflect our current time. Two artists or artist teams create two

sculptures for display in the Beltline, which remain in place for a minimum of three years. The program is intended to become an annual initiative, just like BUMP’s murals. Over time, the evolution of the sculptures will mirror our changing city. For this new initiative, guest curator Ken Lum, a Canadian and American artist, academic and curator, brought his expertise. Lum was also the keynote speaker at BUMP’s 2025 Urban Art Conference, where he spoke on how the structures of a city reflect or obscure elements of society — a theme the public sculpture program hopes to carry forward. yycbump.ca

CALGARY PRO MUSICA CELEBRATES

50TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON

RENDERING OF THE JOSEPH CHUNG CENTRE FOR CREATIVITY.

programming will “look backward and forward.” To reflect this theme, Calgary Pro Musica will bring back staples from previous seasons and introduce new works. Frequent guest ensemble the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center returns, along with the Poiesis Quartet, winners of the 2025 Banff International String Quartet Competition. Newly commissioned works from Canadian composers, including Imaginal by Carmen Braden, performed by Canadian violinist James Ehnes, and Jack and the Beanstalk by Claude Lapalme, will be performed at the 2027 Family Concert. calgarypromusica.ca

GRYPHON TRIO IS PART OF CALGARY PRO MUSICA'S 2026/27 SEASON.

NAMING OF NATIONAL ACCESSARTS CENTRE’S THE JOSEPH CHUNG

CENTRE FOR CREATIVITY National accessArts Centre (NaAC) is Canada’s first multidisciplinary disability arts organization, offering people with developmental and physical disabilities opportunities to engage in the arts in ways that may otherwise be inaccessible. To this end, NaAC is currently fundraising for and developing its new campus — the world’s first accessible, disability-focused arts learning campus. Thanks to a recent generous donation from Vancouver-based business professionals and philanthropists Drs. Peter Chung and Stephanie Chung,

NaAC has exceeded 75 per cent of its campaign goal. To recognize this monumental donation, NaAC is naming the heart of the campus — its learning hub — the Joseph Chung Centre for Creativity, in honour of the Chungs’ late son, Joseph, who lived with autism and epilepsy. The Chungs’ legacy helps to ensure new possibilities for disability arts. As Peter said at the press conference announcing the naming, “Honouring and remembering our son Joseph means creating opportunity for others.” accessarts.ca

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

CALGARY PRO MUSICA PHOTO BY BO HUANG; NAAC RENDERING BY DIALOG + ACCESS DZN + ISL

In the University of Calgary’s Rozsa Centre, the Calgary Pro Musica Society brings together talent from the world of chamber music. While chamber music may not be widely known compared to full orchestra performances, it creates an intimate listening experience. Chamber music is a form of classical music composed to be played by a small group (usually two to eight musicians), with one performer to a part and no conductor. As proof of how special a chamber music experience is, Calgary Pro Musica celebrates its 50th anniversary season this year. Artistic director Dean O’Brien says the season’s

s s

o .S

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CHUNG CENTRE

TRICO COMMUNITIES CENTRE

The National accessArts Centre (NaAC) is building the world’s first fully accessible arts learning campus, anchored by the Trico Communities Accessible Arts Centre and the Joseph Chung Centre for Creativity. It may not cost hundreds of millions of dollars – but its impact will reach far beyond its walls: creating a new trajectory for more than 450 Canadian artists with disabilities and reaching hundreds of thousands more worldwide through exhibitions, performances and global partnerships.

What if we measured cultural infrastructure not by size, but by its impact? Discover how we are changing the arts – for good.

accessarts.ca O P E R AT I O N A L PA R T N E R S :

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

THE LAUNCH OF

MURMUR THEATRE Founded by director, choreographer and dancer Rita Rebetskaia and stage designer Polina Kaulio, MurMur Theatre’s work focuses on visually striking, body-oriented performances. MurMur’s first show, Woyzeck, debuts this fall. It draws on Rebetskaia’s and Kaulio’s backgrounds to reimagine dramatist Georg Büchner’s unfinished play as a sci-fi that examines how our humanity persists in a world where our bodies, memories and desires are controlled.

MurMur Theatre celebrated its launch in January 2026 with a party and performance of scenes from Woyzeck, but the theatre’s roots date further back. Both Rebetskaia and Kaulio are a part of the TD Incubator program, an artist development program at the Werklund Centre. For the 2025/26 season of TD Amplify, the pair worked with dancer Sierra Oszust and alt-pop band SHY FRiEND to create Episode 1, a piece centred on rage and feminine energy. murmurtheatre.com

SCENE FROM WOYZECK BY MURMUR THEATRE.

NEW COLLECTIVES EMERGE MU R MUR T H E AT RE P H OTO BY MA X TATAE V; U NCOMM ON ARTS CO LLECTI V E P H OTO BY L I N DS AY N I C H OL S

UNCOMMON ART COLLECTIVE

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LOCAL ARTISTS ARE COMING TOGETHER TO PRACTISE AND SHOWCASE THEIR WORKS. In August 2025, four painters and one photographer formed the Uncommon Art Collective. Its debut exhibition, Liminal Space, took place this past spring at Alberta Society of Artists Art Gallery and also featured two workshops. Stay tuned, as the collective is now working on its second exhibition. uncommonartcollective.com The Core Collective started in October 2025, finding its home in the northeast South Airways business park. Eight artists work in a variety of mediums — book a tour of the collaborative studio space and you’ll find paintings, sculptures, fibre arts and mixed media pieces on display. @corecollectiveartstudio The historic utility building Substation No. 7 now houses a collective of seven independent businesses — each bringing their own energy, craft and vision. Including a bespoke tailor, a boutique record shop, a graphic studio and Substance Art Gallery, The Substation Collective is a place to gather, hosting pop-ups, events and collaborations, with an open layout designed to shift and evolve. thesubstation.co

VERTIGO THEATRE UNVEILS A SEASON OF THRILLS FOR 50TH ANNIVERSARY Calgary’s go-to theatre for a thrilling mystery celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, and this season demonstrates exactly why it's been beloved for so long. The Lodger kicks things off this fall, running from Sept. 26 to Oct. 25. It's a stage adaptation of a novel by Marie Belloc Lowndes and the 1927 Alfred Hitchcock film of the same name. Written by Susie Moloney and Vern Thiessen, two of Canada’s most esteemed playwrights, this thriller is beautifully on-brand for Vertigo’s anniversary season. The rest of the season similarly captures what audiences love

ENJOY MYSTERY WITH VERTIGO'S PERFORMANCE OF THE MIDNIGHT TORCH: A DETECTIVE MURDOCH MYSTERY.

so much — intrigue, suspense and whodunits. See Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty, where history’s greatest detective faces off against his greatest enemy. Following that, The 39 Steps, a spy thriller based on another of Hitchcock’s films. If you haven’t had your fill of famous detectives, then you’re in luck with The Midnight Torch: A Detective Murdoch Mystery. The season wraps up with the special presentation Last Candle, a spooky non-verbal visual performance created by Vertigo’s resident company, 8ROJO. vertigotheatre.com

NEW UTILITY BOX

Public art initiatives bring communities to life, adding beauty to everyday life. Smaller initiatives, like the utility box public art program, bring art across the city where you least expect it. And this year, this initiative is getting an upgrade. Since the launch of the program in 2010, more than 300 utility box art pieces have popped up all over the city. Previously, community organizations selected the artists. In 2026, curators connected to the community were selected from Calgary Arts Development’s curatorial roster. They were assigned to each of the five communities chosen for this year’s program: Sunridge, McKenzie Towne, Shawnessy, Bowness/ Montgomery and Downtown (specifically 7th Avenue).

The new curator-led program intends to make the utility boxes more cohesive, telling a story throughout the community. Among the curators are Métis poet Cobra Collins, who was nominated for Calgary poet laureate in 2016 and 2018; Mao Kun Chen, a multidisciplinary artist and co-founder of Mao Projects, an art and ceramics studio in Calgary, and Lindy Pruitt, who curated the 2024/25 Northeast Mini Galleries public art exhibition. Calgary Arts Development also launched Public Art 101, an online professional development series. The 10-part series looks at the ins and outs of creating public art, including planning, budgeting, maintenance and installation. calgaryartsdevelopment.com

V ERT IGO ART WOR K BY FI F TH WA LL ME DIA; U TIL IT Y BOX P H OTOS BY CH E LS E A YAN G S M I T H

PUBLIC ART PROGRAM

THIS UTILITY BOX IN RAMSAY TITLED CELEBRATE, NURTURE AND COLLABORATE WAS CREATED BY ARTIST MACKENZIE BEDFORD.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

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DANCER TKAJA IRWIN AND THE SHOTGUN JAZZ BAND FROM THE PERFORMANCE CALL AND RESPONSE.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

ALL THAT WORDS BY CATRINA BOWLES

DECI D E D LY JA Z Z DA N CE WOR K S ’ DANC E C E NT R E C E LE BRATES

P H OTO BY MA DDY FAU NT

10 Y E A R S O F B R I NGIN G JA ZZ TO E VE RYDAY LIF E .

n downtown Calgary, you might not know about a 40,000-square-foot dance centre, making our city a rather unexpected jazz dance hub. But that’s precisely what you’ll find. In 2016, Decidedly Jazz Danceworks (DJD) raised $28.5 million to build what is now Calgary’s largest recreational dance school focused on jazz music and performance. This did not happen overnight. In 1985, DJD had humble beginnings in a single studio before moving to a space across from the now-closed Rose and Crown Pub on 4th Street S.W. in 1993. It was a massive upgrade — that venue sported three studios for rehearsals and dance classes. But, as time marched forward, so did inflation. “Every five years, the rent would double,” says Kathi Sundstrom, DJD’s executive director. “It was becoming evident that our current operating model was broken. Unless we found a differ-

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ent way to operate, we would cease to exist.” While DJD was experiencing growth, it reached a point where there were no more revenue options. Dance classes served as the most significant income source, but, with a limited number of studios and hours in the day, DJD had no choice but to think of alternative solutions. The company could only survive a few more years with the ever-increasing rent costs.

“UNLESS WE FOUND A DIFFERENT WAY TO OPERATE, WE WOULD CEASE TO EXIST.” KATHI SUNDSTROM

A new home In 2005, DJD began talks with the Kahanoff Foundation, which was planning on building a second tower to the east of the existing Kahanoff Centre. The Kahanoff Foundation wanted the building to be a home for charities and nonprofit organizations, and DJD, as a registered charity, could be the anchor. The collaboration didn’t take off until 2012, after several bumps in the road, including the 2008 financial crisis. To get the project completed, DJD pledged to contribute $17 million to the building cost. “We ended up raising $28.5 million,” says Sundstrom. “It was a lot of hard work. There were a lot of times when it didn't seem like it was going to happen.” But it did. The new Kahanoff II tower and DJD Dance Centre opened their doors in 2016 in the Beltline. DJD celebrated the opening with a show, aptly named New Universe.

Major milestones

Jazz is community The importance of community to DJD has a foundation in the origins of jazz itself. “Jazz as a form — both dance and music — was born in North America out of the transatlantic slave trade, and it grew as part of the African American and Black American experience,”

DJD FAST FACTS DJD doesn’t just teach jazz. Choose from a variety of dance styles including West African, hip hop, tap and ballet. DJD offers a program for people with Parkinson’s disease, which runs from September through June. In 2022, Vicki Adams Willis, Michèle Moss and Hannah Stilwell, the founders of DJD, were inducted into the Canadian Dance Hall of Fame. DJD featured in the 2020 award-winning jazz documentary Uprooted: The Journey of Jazz Dance, directed by Khadifa Wong.

says Cooper. “Going back to the roots, this form comes from people whose dance and music were a part of their everyday life.” Whether it's bringing jazz to the streets through giant windows or working with local musicians to incorporate live music during performances, DJD embraces community. “We very much built [the dance centre] with the philosophy that we're building it for the community,” says Sundstrom. “What the facility has done for the dance community and the nonprofit community is really astounding.” Patti Pon, president and CEO for Calgary Arts Development, agrees. “The DJD Dance Centre has put Calgary on the map in the jazz world,

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

P H OTO BY N OEL B ÉGIN

DJD celebrated its 40th anniversary last year, while 2026 marks 10 years since the opening of the DJD Dance Centre. The permanent home allows DJD to celebrate its dancers and community even more. The facility features seven dance studios and a 230-seat theatre where DJD stages its performances. “It is a gift to be able to create work in the same space that it's going to be performed,” says Kimberley Cooper, DJD’s artistic director, who was a former dancer with the company. “Dancers are always struggling for places to rehearse, and we wanted to give them a place for dignity and … a place where they were respected and honoured.” Rather than a significant portion of revenue going to rent, DJD now has the flexibility to direct the money toward its dancers. “We are providing good lives for dancers,” says Cooper. “[They] can have long careers, and can work for most of the year and have health insurance. That isn't really that common anymore.” Along with the rehearsal and performance spaces, the DJD Dance Centre features a 2,500-square-foot community living room, where dancers, whether professional or beginner, can meet each other and mingle. A key aspect to the welcoming feel that DJD strived for is achieved through the floor-to-ceiling windows at the centre. Dance isn’t reserved for a special few — these windows enable passing drivers and pedestrians the chance to peek through and see dance in action. It’s become part of the daily streetscape. “We firmly believe that when dance and music are a part of your everyday life, your everyday life is better,” says Cooper.

THE TAKE THE CAKE ART INSTALLATION BY HADLEY+MAXWELL ILLUMINATES THE TOP OF THE DJD DANCE CENTRE.

NATASHA KORNEY (LEFT), SABRINA NAZ COMANESCU AND RUBIM DE TOLEDO ON BASS FROM BETTER GET HIT IN YOUR SOUL.

garians can get excited about with the significant amount of investment that’s going into cultural infrastructure in our city right now.” Combining access through infrastructure with the premise that anyone is welcome to dance helps create a space for belonging. “The African essence of jazz is that everyone does it,” says Sundstrom. “Dance is a way that you celebrate and come together.” This is also the reason for DJD’s varied programming. The dance centre offers lessons for kids, for adults and for professionals who have been dancing for years. The joy is in the act of dancing and coming together, rather than trying to be perfect. “Our program for children isn't about competitions and recitals and high kicks,” says Sundstrom. “It's about doing it, experiencing it and your own individual creative expression.”

A farewell and a hello

THE DJD DANCE CENTRE FEATURES BIG WINDOWS SO PASSERSBY CAN SEE DANCERS IN ACTION,

DAN CE CE NT R E P H OTO BY DAV ID T ROY ER ; P ER FO RM ANCE P H OTO BY SCOT T R EI D; S UNDST ROM P H OTO BY T R UDIE LE E

MAKING DANCE MORE ACCESSIBLE.

as well as being an important hub for the dance community in Calgary, giving DJD a home base and providing a place for artists to develop and share their work with audiences,” she affirms. Beyond that, the centre demonstrates how purpose-built art spaces are critical to community vitality, not only as incubators and performance spaces for artists, but for the community at large. Having that cultural exposure and access brings so much to the quality of life in Calgary. “The DJD Dance Centre is a good example of the positive contributions amazing arts spaces make to a city's vibrancy, economic diversity and identity,” says Pon. “This is something Cal-

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“DANCE IS A WAY THAT YOU CELEBRATE AND COME TOGETHER.” KATHI SUNDSTROM

DJD closed out its 2025/2026 season with a double-bill performance titled Matters of Rhythm and Harmony, a celebration of its 10th anniversary in the dance centre. The first act of the show, Carne Vale, is inspired by the history of Carnival, a Caribbean festival celebrating resilience and liberation. Created by longtime DJD dancer Sabrina Naz Comanescu, the piece explores the transition of the spirit to the afterlife — a journey of saying goodbye to living, and hello to whatever comes next. It’s a poignant celebration of DJD’s past and looks ahead to future opportunities. In the fall of 2026, DJD will say hello to more new opportunities thanks to a generous donation of $2.5 million from the Osten-Victor Fund. To honour that gift, DJD will name its performance theatre the Osten-Victor Stage. That donation sets the stage not only for more creativity, but also sustainability. “It's very exciting,” says Sundstrom. “That money will go to create an artistic creation fund for DJD that will help finance all that we do for many years to come.” 111 12 Avenue S.E., decidedlyjazz.com

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M O R E AC C E S S TO SCREENING Starting in 2027, Alberta women will be able to book their own mammogram at 40.

Mammograms are very painful “While they can be briefly uncomfortable for some women, the compression only lasts for a few seconds, and typically, our technologists will work with patients — especially patients who’ve had bad experiences or have sensitive breasts — to make sure that it's as tolerable as possible.”

The radiation is unsafe “The radiation dose is very low. It’s roughly equivalent to a couple of months of natural background radiation that we’re exposed to when we walk around every day, and it’s heavily regulated and monitored in the medical setting. The benefits of a screening mammogram outweigh the minimal risks that are associated with radiation for most women.”

I don't have a family history of breast cancer, so I don't need a screening mammogram

mammogram, an extra step that can be hard to arrange amid a primary physician shortage. Come April 2027, women 40-74 can skip the requisition and book directly. For 174,000 more Alberta women, screening will be one phone call away. “When caught early, breast cancer survival rates are excellent. That's why we want to screen early — to find small cancers before they cause symptoms, like a lump that a patient can feel, and before they have a chance to spread,” says Brisson.

“Family history is important to find patients who are at higher risk, but it only accounts for a minority of the breast cancer cases that we see. The majority of the women who develop breast cancer have no known risk factors, other than having breasts.”

Since I have dense breasts, I only need an ultrasound and not a mammogram “Think of mammography and ultrasound as two completely different ways to look at the breast, and each can find things that the other test can miss. They work together to maximize our chances of finding cancer early. Dense breasts are a reason to consider additional imaging, but it’s not a reason to skip your mammogram.”

To learn more or book your screening, visit efw.ca/mammo or screeningforlife.ca/where-to-get-screened

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

P H OTOGR AP H S BY KAT E LI N CL ANCY, EF W R AD IOLOGY

n April 2027, the self-referral age for breast cancer screening in Alberta will drop from 45 to 40, giving 174,000 more women direct access to mammograms. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women across Canada and Alberta. It remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in women, but survival has dramatically improved over the last few decades, thanks to earlier detection and improved treatments. “The earlier we can find the cancer, the more treatment options we have, and the better the outcomes tend to be,” says Dr. Anne-Marie Brisson, EFW radiologist and VP of Breast Imaging and Interventions at the Alberta Society of Radiologists. Brisson completed advanced breast imaging fellowship training at Cornell University/NewYorkPresbyterian Hospital and focuses her practice on finding and diagnosing breast cancer. Self-referral is as simple as making an appointment with a diagnostic imaging clinic, such as EFW Radiology. But currently, women under 45 need a doctor's requisition for a

DR. BRISSON ADDRESSES FOUR COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS

All Requisitions Accepted

EFW.ca

Requisitions are referral forms/letters used by your physician to communicate the type of exam you require. The original requisition form may be required to book your appointment and should be provided to reception upon arrival. Please speak with your referring physician if a new requisition is required. © 2026 EFW Radiology. All Rights Reserved or Used Under License. AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

DRESSED T W E N T Y 2 6 meet the judges

JADE DAVIS With a career spanning more than 30 years in modelling, film and television, Jade Davis has built a reputation for her keen eye, industry expertise and enduring love of fashion. Whether training new talent or planning her next adventure, she approaches fashion with enthusiasm.

CYNTHIA CHANG-CHRISTISON Cynthia ChangChristison approaches fashion as storytelling, cultural expression and creativity. She blends luxury, streetwear, local and handcrafted pieces and uses her personal style to express identity, celebrate culture and support creative communities.

CARL ABAD Carl Abad’s journey as a stylist started 29 years ago in London, England. He studied jewellery design and metalsmithing, skills he weaves into his brand, Fun Not Serious. His clients have included Mark’s and Alberta Ballet, and he currently runs his new luxury skincare brand, AbadFace.

KELLY STREIT Kelly Streit is the founder and owner of Mode Models International, one of the world's most influential, global talent agencies. He is the current Board Co-Chair of Contemporary Calgary and has been recognised by Maclean's magazine as one of its "100 Canadians to watch.”

KARA CHOMISTEK Kara Chomistek is a producer, fashion director and co-founder of PARK Production House and PARK Foundation (PARKLUXE & PARKSHOW Fashion Events). Her creative perspective stems from her engineering and arts backgrounds and she collaborates with creative partners globally.

LEELA JACOBS Leela Jacobs, vice-chair and program director of NVRLND. Arts Foundation, has a layered aesthetic built on texture, edge and intentional accessories as her signature. She also designs functional and distinctive pieces through her eponymous leather accessories brand.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

HAKEEM LAWAL, FOUNDER AND CO-OWNER, FARI HARA AND ONE OF OUR BEST DRESSED 2026.

Calgary is home to the fashion-forward. These entrepreneurs, designers, business owners, artists and corporate folks are fearless in showcasing their personal style across the city. This year’s Avenue Best Dressed, presented with Bankers Hall is a big, bold list of Calgarians strutting their style. B Y A L I C I A L'A R C H E V Ê Q U E P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y J A R E D S Y C H S T Y L I N G A S S I S TA N C E B Y PA R K P R O D U C T I O N H O U S E H A I R A N D M A K E U P A S S I S TA N C E B Y M I C H E L L E S I M O N E A U - C L AY T O N S H O T O N L O C AT I O N AT B A N K E R S H A L L A N D B A N K E R S C O U R T

SHANNON NORBERG Norberg Hall co-director Shannon Norberg applies the same curatorial eye to her commercial art gallery as she does to her personal style. She often reaches for bold pearly accents and eye-catching surrealist shapes. How would you describe your personal style? “Personal style is really an extension of my gallery practice. I’m drawn to creative voices, independent thinking and the thrill of discovering something before everyone else sees its value. The same instincts that guide the artists I champion often guide what I choose to wear.” Why is expressing personal style important? “People may not remember every jacket or pair of shoes, but they remember the perspective and confidence behind the choices. Ultimately, both my wardrobe and my gallery practice are expressions of the same belief: that careful looking matters, overlooked things deserve attention, and taste is not about consensus. It is about conviction.” What do you want your style choices to say about you? “As a gallery owner, there’s an expectation of confidence, cultural fluency and presence. But if style becomes too performative, it can feel disconnected from who you are. For me, authenticity is everything. My goal isn’t to look like an ‘art dealer.’ My goal is to look like myself.” Left outfit Navy wash jeans: Cordera (Fieldstudy) Blue button down with orange bow: Essentiel Antwerp Platform burgundy shoes: Essentiel Antwerp Green glasses: Chinook Optical Pearl phone accessory: La Garçonne Right outfit White button down: Adidas Y-3 (Simons) Black vest: Silence + Noise (Anthropologie) Pants: Zara Platform gold shoes: Adidas x Gucci Chicken foot pearl necklace: Gohar World Black Glasses: Chinook Optical

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“ P E O P L E M AY N O T R E M E M B E R E V E RY J A C K E T O R PA I R O F S H O E S , B U T T H E Y R E M E M B E R T H E P E R S P E C T I V E A N D C O N F I D E N C E B E H I N D T H E C H O I C E S .”

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“DON’ T BE SELF-CONSCIOUS, A N D W E A R W H AT F E E L S R I G H T F O R YO U I N T H E M O M E N T.”

MICHAEL CORNER When Banff-based artist Michael Corner isn’t working on oil paintings in clothes that can be ruined, he’s intentionally clad in sophisticated western wear. How did you figure out your personal style? "It's ever evolving. As one grows they grow into new things. At this moment in time, I happen to appreciate western wear." Why is expressing personal style important? “We all have an aesthetic responsibil-

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ity to do our best to make the world look better. If the best we can do to contribute is drape ourselves in things that are a little bit more appealing, then we’ve done our part.” What advice would you give to someone who wants to cultivate their style? “Take yourself seriously in the right way. You’re always wearing a costume, so get over the idea that that’s somehow detrimental. It’s worth making an effort. Don’t be self-conscious, and wear what feels right for you in the

moment.” What is your favourite piece that you own? “An old, battered pair of boots from Alberta Boot Company.” Left outfit Boots: Alberta Boot Company Tan suit: H Bar C Ranchwear White button down: H Bar C Ranchwear Cowboy hat: Smithbilt Hats Inc. Belt: Stewart Leather Belt buckle: Clocks and Colours

Jewellery: Clocks and Colours, and found pieces. Right outfit Boots: Alberta Boot Company Cowboy hat: Smithbilt Hats Inc. Embroidered button-down: H Bar C Ranchwear Leather jacket: H Bar C Ranchwear Jeans: Wrangler Belt: Stewart Leather Belt buckle: Clocks and Colours Jewelry: Clocks and Colours, Lox & Chain and found pieces

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

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10816 Macleod Trail SE | wpv.ca | @wpvillage | #MeetMeAtTheWillow AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

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“STYLE IS A VISUAL E X P R E S S I O N O F YO U R I D E N T I T Y, A N D I T C A N T E L L A S T O RY B E F O R E YO U E V E N I N T R O D U C E YO U R S E L F.”

ANNA NIEMCZEWSKI Chinook Optical owner Anna Niemczewski transforms eyewear into expressive accessories. She pairs her own expansive collection of bold frames with structured, oversized silhouettes and a soft spot for the colour black. How would you describe your personal style? “Considered, comfortable and ‘does it come in black?’” How did you figure out your personal style? “Thanks to my need for glasses at

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a young age, I've known about the power of a good accessory for a long time. Style is a visual expression of your identity, and it can tell a story before you even introduce yourself. I know that getting dressed has the power to make me feel good, and that the power of a good outfit can fuel me from day to night.” What is your favourite piece that you own? “I wear three gold bangles that belonged to my mother. A year after she died, I was going through her things

and found them. When I put them on I instantly heard the sound of her wearing them. I rarely take them off now. The power of a sound to revive the memory of someone is undeniably powerful.” Left outfit Glasses: Lapima from Chinook Optical Vest: Zara White button-down: Uniqlo Tie: The Limited (vintage) Pants: COS Shoes: Jil Sander

Bag: Celine Jewellery: A mix of heirloom pieces, Cartier, Andrea Blais and Tiffany. Right outfit Glasses: Kuboraum from Chinook Optical Jeans: Carhartt Jacket: Zara Toque: Gravity Pope Shoes: Manolo Blahnik Earrings: Jenny Bird Bag: Maison Margiela

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

THE POSTSUMMER

SKIN GLOW

Fall marks the perfect time to treat yourself to laser treatments at Beacon Dermatology.

successful summer is often filled with plenty of outdoor activities with friends and family, maybe a vacation somewhere warm, and a lot of fun in the sun. While sunscreen is essential, Dr. Metelitsa, a dermatologist at Beacon Dermatology, says it’s rarely applied perfectly or consistently, resulting in increased UV exposure. Ultimately, this can result in skin damage over time. As summer comes to an end, fall is an ideal season to address any sun damage with Beacon Dermatology’s laser treatments. While laser treatments offer lasting results, they do require sun protection afterwards. “Laser treatments leave your skin temporarily more sensitive to UV light,” says Metelitsa. “As we head into fall, UV intensity drops and most of us are spending less time outdoors — both of which meaningfully reduce the risk of complications

like hyperpigmentation or uneven healing. That makes the cooler months the safest, most forgiving window to treat.”

A PERSONALIZED APPROACH TARGETED TREATMENTS

Beacon Dermatology offers the latest laser technology. Common treatments, great for a postsummer refresh, include intense pulsed light (IPL), Fraxel and CO2 laser treatments. As the name suggests, IPL uses pulses of light, delivered by a certified laser technician, to target pigmentation, and it only takes one treatment to see results. “With minimal downtime, it's an excellent option for evening out overall skin tone,” says Metelitsa. Fraxel and CO2 lasers leave the skin a little bit more sensitive in the weeks after the treatment, as they reveal a fresh layer of skin. The Fraxel laser stimulates collagen and enhances natural healing by using microscopic lasers that target damaged cells, improving texture and pigmentation. CO2 lasers target more significant damage and concerns by removing layers of damaged skin. While the Patient received a Fraxel laser treatment to reduce pigmentation and improve recovery period is longer, skin firmness, paired with medical-grade skincare to enhance results. it delivers dramatic results

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for deep wrinkles and significant sun damage, explains Metelitsa.

Beacon Dermatology understands that everyone’s skin is unique, which is why every patient receives a personal consultation with a qualified physician before treatment. “There are many different skin types that require an individualized approach. No one treatment will work perfectly for everyone,” says dermatologist Dr. Susan Poelman. “Patients can expect to meet with our treatment designer, Danielle, who can suggest treatment options to address their concerns and design a program according to their budget, schedule and preferences.” Beacon Dermatology offers complimentary consultations where certified practitioners recommend the right treatment to effectively address unique skin concerns. With the right knowledge and tools, the team — which has more than 20 years of experience in the aesthetic medical field — ensures patients receive the best naturallooking results. “We have the expertise to advise on the right treatments to give the best possible outcomes. Our staff are kind, caring and qualified,” says Poelman. “We have the latest technology to achieve naturallooking outcomes and pride ourselves on making our patients look and feel their best.” To learn more, visit beaconderm.com

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“MY STYLE REFLECTS A WILLINGNESS TO BE SEEN A N D A N A P P R E C I AT I O N FOR THOUGHTFUL, I M PA C T F U L D E S I G N .”

E D WA R D T S A N G Edward Tsang, owner of Ed Tsang Studio, loves to create unexpected and refreshing contrasts, while integrating Asian brands and pop culture influences. How would you describe your personal style? “My personal style draws inspiration from my Asian heritage and contemporary fashion, blending traditional influences with modern forms: highcontrast, disruptive and intentionally attention-grabbing. I’m drawn to pieces that challenge traditional

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boundaries, including gender norms, while expressing individuality through bold combinations of colour, texture and shape.” How did you figure out your personal style? “I always had a visual interest in fashion, mostly from my mom. She was definitely one to put an outfit together, captivate an audience and catch attention. My personal aesthetic is very inherited. Whether it’s running an errand at the grocery store, going to an event or a day-to-day workday.”

What do you want your style choices to say about you? “I want my style to communicate confidence, creativity and self-expression. Just as I design spaces that evoke a mood and captivate an audience, I use clothing to tell a story, create intrigue and leave a lasting impression. My style reflects a willingness to be seen and an appreciation for thoughtful, impactful design." Left outfit Collar: Karl Lagerfeld

Vest: COS Shorts: FxxkingRabbits #FR2 Shoes and socks: Onitsuka Tiger Big purse: Balenciaga Right outfit Black button down: Unlimited (Montreal) Necklace: Fun Not Serious by Carl Abad Pants: Aritzia Bubble shoes: Grounds Clutch: Delvaux

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

The view of the Entrance Pavillion from Downtown West–Kerby CTrain Station.

South view of the Art and Education Centre.

BUILDING A PLACE

FOR ART

IM AGES © 2025 , CO NT EMP OR ARY CALGARY, KP MB ARCHIT E CTS , GG A ARCHI TE CTS , R EN DER IN GS BY NO RM LI STU DIOS . ART WO RK I N R IGH T RE NDE RIN G BY CH R IS CRAN A N D FAY E H E AVYS H I E L D.

Contemporary Calgary’s transformation aims to create an international destination for art and community. n any given day, there is a mix of people from varying walks of life and cultures sharing the space at Contemporary Calgary, whether it’s families checking out an exhibit, students on a field trip, local artists finding inspiration or friends meeting before a public program. Visitors come from all generations and backgrounds and are brought together by a shared appreciation for the arts. Collaborating with more than 30 community partners, the gallery delivers a diverse lineup of public programming that complements its world-class exhibitions throughout the year. While an affordable admission model keeps the gallery accessible, an exciting new chapter is on the horizon. Soon, visitors will have even greater opportunities to discover and engage with this expanding roster of exhibitions and programs.

NATIONAL SUPPORT Through its Build Communities Strong Fund, the Canadian government is putting its support behind Calgary’s contemporary art community. With an investment of $40 million, Contemporary Calgary’s Centennial Planetarium Transformation Project (CPTP) will change the way Calgarians experience one of Canada’s leading contemporary art, education and community gathering places. The funding supports the third and final phase of the CPTP, designed by KPMB Architects with GGA-Architecture in Calgary. The final phase will transform the historic Centennial Planetarium into one of Canada’s most environmentally sustainable contemporary art institutions, targeting net-zero operational performance through geothermal energy and high-performance building systems.

A NEW ERA First opened in 1967 and home to Contemporary Calgary since 2020, the Centennial Planetarium will see numerous enhancements once the final phase

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of the transformation is complete. The expansion includes a new Entrance Pavilion, an education and gallery wing, a rooftop event centre and the creation of a new public art park. One of the most dramatic changes will be a high-tech upgrade of the iconic dome into Canada’s first flat-floor LED Dome, dedicated exclusively to contemporary visual artists. “You don’t have to look very far back to see what cultural investment can do for a city. The National Music Centre didn’t just build an incredible destination in East Village — it helped transform an entire neighbourhood. Culture creates confidence. It attracts people, encourages private investment, supports local businesses and becomes a catalyst for economic activity,” says David Leinster, CEO, Contemporary Calgary. “The Contemporary Calgary Centennial Planetarium Transformation Project offers that same opportunity for the Downtown West community. We’re investing in one of the most densely populated neighbourhoods in Calgary, creating a cultural anchor that we believe will inspire further investment and help shape the next chapter of our city’s evolution.”

A PLACE TO GATHER Once renovations are complete, the Centennial Planetarium will have nearly 57 per cent more usable floor space, reduce energy consumption by up to 41 per cent and feature more than 39,000 square feet of gallery and education space, making it the largest non-collecting contemporary art gallery in Western Canada. During the transformation, Contemporary Calgary will continue to serve the community and act as a space where people can gather and connect through art. “We see Downtown West as one of Calgary’s most exciting opportunities — a place where culture, community, the Bow River and city-building come together. This project is about far more than transforming an iconic building,” says Leinster. “It’s about creating a destination that will enrich the lives To learn more about Contemporary of Calgarians while Calgary’s Centennial Planetarium helping to build Transformation Project, exhibitions and a stronger, more public programs like Free First Thursday, visit ContemporaryCalgary.com vibrant downtown for generations to come.”

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“I’M OBSESSED WITH THE CONCEPT OF THE ‘ N E W N E W.’ I T H A S T O F E E L F R E S H .”

KENDALL MANYHORSES Community comprehensive plan co-ordinator for Tsuut’ina Nation by day, and playwright by night, Kendall Manyhorses pairs his modern fashion inspirations with handmade First Nations pieces, motifs and designs. How would you describe your personal style? “Being First Nations is really important to me, so I always make sure that I put it through that lens. I look at what’s happening trend-wise in fashion, and then I see how I can blend it to make it me.”

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What do you want your style choices to say about you? “I always want to feel like this is an extension of my personality, that this is how I show up in a space.” What advice would you give to someone who wants to cultivate their own style? “I’m obsessed with the concept of the ‘new new.’ It has to feel fresh. I understand the concept of collective history and pop culture history, and you need to know where you are in relation to all that to make it your own.”

What is your favourite piece that you own? “My mom made me these moccasins. They’re deer skin, and had minimal beadwork [initially], and then she decided to gift me with fully beading them. The leather distressed over time, so they look very cool, like a product of time.” Left outfit Jacket: Dsquared2 T-shirt: Kit and Ace Belt: Wild West Gallery

Pants: Uniqlo Choker: Morongo Powwow market Mocassin ankle boots: Visvim Glasses: Vintage Ralph Lauren Right outfit Green shirt: handmade by himself Pants: Senne Shoes: JW Anderson Glasses: Yves Saint Laurent Necklaces: Gifted and handmade by his sisters and First Nations artisans.

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“GET OUT OF THE ALGORITHM, AND JUST W E A R I T. I T ’ S S U P E R C L I C H É T O S AY, B U T YO U A R E T H E O C C A S I O N .”

CHAI SWINTON-TRUCH The owner of Calgary’s only inclusive lingerie store, Body by Chai, Chai Swinton-Truch loves to combine feminine and masculine pieces while highlighting her love of baseball. How did you figure out your personal style? “It took years. My dad was an artist and an activist in the Philippines, and that’s where the rebellious side comes from. My style has evolved so much, and now it’s being true to myself and just wearing what I want to wear all the time.”

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How does your personal style affect the way you show up in your job? “Because of [Body by Chai’s] inclusive factor, I want to show up ready to help whoever is coming into the store. My style is feminine and masculine, and I mix in the lingerie to show people ‘you can do this.’ Be confident, be comfortable, and as long as it fits and you feel good in it, wear it.” What advice would you give to someone who wants to cultivate their own style? “Get out of the algorithm, and just

wear it. It’s super cliché to say, but you are the occasion.” Where is your favourite place to shop in Calgary? “I love Vespucci Consignment. You’re always finding things that are a little more unique, it’s not off the shelf. Then, maybe it’s had a past life, and you’re giving it a new life. Also Smythe.” Left outfit Top: Smythe Blue baseball jersey: MLB flagship

store in New York Pants: Issey Miyake Earrings: Jenny Bird Black pearl bracelet: Crossroads Market Rings: Dean Davidson and Kate Spade Right outfit Jacket: Footlocker Bodysuit: Body by Chai Skirt: Dissh Hat: Peace Collective Shoes: Prada

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

ASIAN HIGHLANDS, THE FIRST CHAPTER OF IMAGINE ASIA, IS NOW OPEN. i

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oic C .

C C

- oAV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

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“STYLE IS AN A RT F O R M T H AT ’ S C O N S TA N T LY E V O LV I N G , A N D I L I K E TO KEEP UP WITH T H AT.” KARSTEN

to experiment more, and that experimentation gives me ideas for my outfits at work. If something outside of work is well-received, then I'll find ways to bring that into work in a creative way.” This page, Karsten, (left) Sweater vest: Phipps Linen dress shirt: Simons Pants: Zara Shoes: Zara Jewellery: Gucci, Tiffany, Acne Studios and Hermes

KARSTEN (LEFT) AND MACKENZIE

KARSTEN AND MACKENZIE CARRIERE Growing up in a fashion-forward household, twin brothers Karsten and Mackenzie Carriere both learned to use clothing to carve out room for creativity in corporate spaces. How would you describe your personal style? Karsten: “I draw inspiration from street style and fashion shows, and I'm always looking for unique ways to wear pieces. Style is an art form

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that’s constantly evolving, and I like to keep up with that.” Why is expressing personal style important? Mackenzie: “If you're just having fun with it and being yourself, I think colours and types of fits can really change the way you're perceived as well as the way you feel. It’s a really good way to express yourself, and for people to get to know you.” How does your style affect how

you show up at work versus outside of work? Mackenzie: “The energy business is very conservative. When I first graduated, I was worried about wearing stuff that was a little bit more colorful, louder and just different. I found out really quickly that the people I work with might not wear the same outfits as me, but it was appreciated.” Karsten: “Outside of work, I tend

This page, Mackenzie (right) Sweater: Marni Dress shirt: World of Vici Pants: Zara Loafers: Zara Rings: Casablanca and Tiffany Tie: Black Brown 1826 Opposite page, Mackenzie (left) Sweater: Simons Collared shirt: World of Vici Loafers: Five Studios Pants: Zara Jewellery: Tiffany, Acne Studios, Mejuri Watch: Bulova Oppostie page, Karsten (right) Sweater: Givenchy Choker: Dsquared2 Dress shirt: Simons Tie: Zara Jeans: Jacquemus Shoes: Prada Jewellery: Alexander McQueen bracelet

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

MACKENZIE (LEFT) AND KARSTEN

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

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“ S T Y L E I S H O W YO U S H O W U P F O R L I F E . B E F O R E YO U S AY A W O R D , YO U R C L O T H E S H AV E A L R E A DY S P O K E N .”

H A K E E M L AWA L As the founder and co-owner of custom tailoring house Fari Hara, Hakeem Lawal prioritizes quality fabrics and a great fit in both his professional ethos and personal style. Why is expressing personal style important? “Style is how you show up for life. Before you say a word, your clothes have already spoken. When what you wear actually affects who you are, you carry yourself differently, and there's a confidence you can't fake.” How does your style affect how you

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show up at work versus outside of work? “At work, I'm the proof of concept. Clients trust a clothier who clearly lives what he preaches. Outside of work, the standard doesn't drop; it just relaxes. The fit is still right whether I'm in a suit or a camp collar shirt on a Saturday.” What advice would you give someone cultivating their own style? “It starts with fit. The most expensive garment in the world looks cheap if it doesn't fit. Then be bold, it's your fit,

nobody else's. Borrow inspiration, but tailor it to your life.” What is your favourite piece you own? “It's a single-breasted green custom suit I had made in glen plaid super 160's wool by Drago. It marked a turning point for me when it comes to fabric. Every time I put it on, I remember why fabric quality is important. The way it feels… it almost has a love story with your body.”

Left outfit Blue suit: Fari Hara Wine-coloured button-up: Fari Hara Shoes: Fari Hara Belt: Robert Graham Right outfit Outfit: Fari Hara Tie: Man of Distinction

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“ I S H O W U P T H E S A M E AT T H E D O G PA R K A S I D O AT W O R K . I F A V I B E I S T H E V I B E , T H E N T H AT ' S W H AT I G O W I T H .”

KIM FLANAGAN As a fashion stylist for the past 20 years and a volunteer with Dress for Success, Kim Flanagan has learned that honouring your personal taste trumps adhering to fashion “rules.” How did you figure out your personal style? “Probably with my parents, because we were taught that getting dressed is manners. It takes it off yourself, and instead becomes care for where you're going and care for who you're gonna go see.” How does your style affect how you

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show up at work versus outside of work? “I show up the same at the dog park as I do at work. If a vibe is the vibe, then that's what I go with.” What advice would you give someone cultivating their own style? “Ditch any fashion rules that you have, they're stupid and they hold you back. Say yes to yourself instead of no. I would never pick the clothes that I pick for myself if I followed my body type. Be attracted to what you're attracted to, and then actually just

try it on.” What is your favourite piece you own? “My Lenny Kravitz coat! It’s a Trina Turk coat that looks like white feathers. Every time I wear it, I pray that I’m gonna run into Lenny Kravitz. It’s a rockstar coat, it just feels good.” What is your favourite designer or place to shop in Calgary? “I do well at Vespucci, I like looking for treasures and I generally find one there. In terms of designers, Paul Hardy and KaaDiki.”

Left outfit Dress: Ciebon (from Who Cares) Vest: KaaDiki (local designer) Bracelets: Zara Boots: 3.1 Phillip Lim Right outfit Dress: Brunello Cucinelli Oversized blazer: Opt (from Wilder’s Consignment) Broach: heirloom (from her mother) Shoes: Stuart Weitzman Purse: Manish Arora

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LISA JACOBS Bass guitarist and music therapist Lisa Jacobs reaches for pieces that are easily paired together and undeniably rock n' roll. How did you figure out your personal style? “Because I'm a musician, I'm on tour a lot. I don’t like to be stressed about what I have to wear all the time, but it’s part of the job. I’ve taken a real Steve Jobs approach to it, where I have a ‘look’ and everything is interchangeable. Except with less turtlenecks, and more jewellery.” Why is expressing personal style important? “I think life is weird and hard and not always magical — the way we dress can just add a little magic.” How does your style affect how you show up at work versus outside of work? “Who I am at work and who I am in real life is exactly the same. If my suitcase were to get lost and I had to go straight from the plane to the stage, what I was wearing on the airplane would work.” What is your favourite piece you own? “My John Varvatos leather jacket is the vintage find of a lifetime. And this temple necklace my mom gave me from India. My brother just passed away a couple of months ago, and I love wearing his Tragically Hip shirt.” Who is your favourite designer or place to shop in Calgary? “My sister, Leela Jacobs. I love her current leather accessory line. I’ve been wearing her creative endeavours since we were kids.” Left outfit Shoes: Dr. Martens customized by Bramble Lee Pryde Dress: Customized by Lisa Jacobs Leather scarf: Leela Jacobs Right outfit Boots: Dr. Martens Shirt: Her late brother’s T-shirt Jacket: John Varvatos Jewellery: Assorted and gifted collection Red bass guitar: 1978 Fender Precision

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

“ I ’ V E TA K E N A R E A L S T E V E J O B S A P P R O A C H T O I T, W H E R E I H AV E A ' L O O K ' A N D E V E RY T H I N G I S I N T E RC H A N G E A B L E . E XC E P T W I T H L E S S T U RT L E N E C K S A N D M O R E J E W E L RY.”

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

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Meller Osei Sunglasses Taupe Sea, TUU By Coutukitsch, $97; Loucia Emily Top in Butter Yellow Floral, TUU By Coutukitsch, $84; Loucia Emily Skirt in Butter Yellow Floral, TUU By Coutukitsch, $72; Twenty Compass Soleil Necklace, Simons, $65; Brave Kiku Suede Belt, Leo Boutique, $130; Loewe Medium Flamenco Shearling Purse With Donut Chain, Holt Renfrew, $5,990; Coutukitsch Collie Ring, TUU By Coutukitsch, $48; Coutukitsch Sublime Ring, TUU By Coutukitsch, $45; Coutukitsch Micah Chain, TUU By Coutukitsch, $48; Malika Rajani Suede Trench, Malika Rajani, $1,799

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THE CONTEMPOR ARY TRENCH

Evening wear layered with vintageinspired pieces, and paired with a fall staple: the suede trench.

M AY/J U N E 2 0 2 6

STYLE

UP YOUR

LIFE It’s the season to fall in love with looks that combine rich palettes, tailored pieces with luxurious textures, evening wear with vintage touches, and stacks of big, bold accessories. PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVE COLLINS STYLING BY KARA CHOMISTEK, PARK PRODUCTION HOUSE STYLIST ASSISTANTS BRIANNA DUCAS, BRENDAN KLEM H A I R A N D M A K E U P B Y B RYA N F R A N C I S C O M O D E L T R E YA N N A , M O D E M O D E L S

THE SKIRT SET

Replace traditional pantsuits with a structured blazer and matching miniskirt. Anneke Forbes Shawl Collar Wrap in Burgundy Virgin Wool Coating, Anneke Forbes, $2,100 (ready to wear); Anneke Forbes Double Breasted Blazer in Rust Mini Houndstooth Wool Suiting, Anneke Forbes, $3,500 (ready to wear); Anneke Forbes Darted Mini Skirt in Rust Mini Houndstooth Wool Suiting, Anneke Forbes, $475 (ready to wear); Ganni B-Kat Grained Leather Shoulder

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

Bag, Leo Boutique, $860; Twik Scalloped Embroidered Collar Polo Shirt in Burgundy, Simons, $49; Frances Oyster Harry’s Pearl Necklace, Frances Oyster, $220; Simons Sheer Check and Tulip Socks, Simons, $10; Loq Elian Loafer in Chestnut, Field Study, $556; Palm Palm Astrid Printed Scarf in Brown Multi, Leo Boutique, $68

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Dean Davidson Lanta Stud Earrings, LEO Boutique, $165; Dean Davidson Manhattan Necklace, LEO Boutique, $475; Dean Davidson Mini Plaza Ring, LEO Boutique, $275; Dean Davidson Crosby Link Ring, LEO Boutique, $175; Dean Davidson Petit Plaza Ring, LEO Boutique, $215; Frances Oyster The Arcade Necklace, Frances Oyster, $240; Loewe Draped Leather Tote Bag in Dark Brownie, Holt Renfrew, $6,150; Smythe Point Collar Shirt in Tan Floral, Smythe, $350; Smythe Piped Side-Zip Palazzo Pant in Tan Floral, Smythe, $395; Stuart Weitzman Stuart Power Croc-Embossed Leather Slingback Pump in Walnut Croc, Holt Renfrew, $675

IN BLOOM

Artful blooms in moody shades take fall florals to new depths when paired with accessories in a rich palette of browns.

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M AY/J U N E 2 0 2 6

IN THE MOOD FOR ROM ANCE

This fall, dark-toned sheath dresses blend effortlessly with vintage-inspired slips to create an enchanting and nostalgic aesthetic.

Loveshackfancy Orianna Lace-Trimmed Satin Slip, Holt Renfrew, $1,060; Zimmermann Alchemy Sheath Dress, Holt Renfrew, $3,000; Frances Oyster The Slipstream Earrings, Frances Oyster, $200

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

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Marni Yellow Polka Dots Espresso Silk Midi Dress, Simons, $2,200; Ganni Floral Patchwork Wraparound Midi Skirt, Simons, $560; Ganni Bou Mini Polka-Dotted Braided-Handle Leather Bag, Simons, $615; Frances Oyster It’s Giving Robyn Earrings, Frances Oyster, $170; Simons Oversized Stone Bracelet, Simons, $19; Simons Large Stone and Pearl Bracelet,Simons, $29; Simons Thick Open Bangle in Off-White, Simons, $25; Simons Asymmetric Bangle, Simons, $19; Simons Oversized Stone Necklace, Simons, $29; Twenty Compass Cleo Necklace, Simons, $65; Pilgrim Iris Necklace, Simons, $69; Pilgrim Aase Wide Open Bangle in Brown, Simons, $40; Pilgrim Aase Wide Open Bangle in Off-White, Simons, $40; Pilgrim Aase Solid Adjustable Ring, Simons, $40

BRAVE NEW TWIST

Reimagine the classic polka dot by pairing prints to produce a maximalist, eye-catching fit.

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M AY/J U N E 2 0 2 6

GO BIG OR GO HOME

Oversized plaids, statement jeans and cozy knits create an effortlessly cool fall uniform.

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

Toteme Mohair Puff Sleeves Loose Cardigan, Simons, $895; Acne Studios 1981 Trompe L’Oeil Jeans, gravitypope Tailored Goods, $1,200; Acne Studios Hooded Overshirt, gravitypope Tailored Goods, $820; Acne Studios Multipocket Micro Bag, gravitypope Tailored Goods, $1,400; Baserange Omato Turtleneck, gravitypope Tailored Goods, $125; Press Lioness Frame, Chinook Optical, $945; Ganni Buckle Low Boot Naplack, Leo Boutique, $730; Alhaja Amalfi Rings, gravitypope Tailored Goods, $195 each; Simons Long Earrings in Various Shapes, Simons, $19

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Elevate your aesthetic

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A DV E RT I S I N G F E AT U R E

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE

a New Home

s Calgary grows, so too do exciting opportunities in the city, including where to live. Across our four quadrants and beyond, you’ll find both new communities and established areas expanding with new residential offerings.

ILL USTR ATIO N BY VE RON ICA COWAN

Read on to discover what makes these communities stand apart. Learn about neighbourhoods that boast acres of green space, that cultivate a small-town feel with access to nearby amenities, that elevate residential rental communities and more. Calgary’s new communities accommodate all kinds of citizens — whether you’re a student seeking a rental home, a growing family looking to upgrade to a larger lot, a retiree who is downsizing or a first-time homebuyer wanting to plant roots in a community aligned with your lifestyle. See which community is right for you.

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

A MODERN AND AUDACIOUS TAKE ON

the Rich Legacy of 17th Avenue S.W. The Arlington Group is helping one of Calgary’s best-known streets evolve into a more connected place to live, work, play and shop.

Francesco

algary’s 17th Avenue has never lacked energy. Its restaurants, shops and gathering places have made it one of the city’s most recognizable destinations. For more than a decade, The Arlington Group has worked to further strengthen the character of the vibrant street with a coordinated approach to growth that adds new homes and commercial spaces. Rather than creating a new neighbourhood at the city’s edge, the Calgary-based investment firm is concentrating its efforts on the long-term growth of one of the city’s most iconic urban corridors. Across six developments, The Arlington Group is helping shape a more complete and connected future for 17th Avenue S.W.

Revitalizing an established urban corridor As one of Calgary’s most established entertainment

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districts, 17th Avenue already has a distinct identity and energy. The Arlington Group is building on that foundation by introducing more residents, new businesses and contemporary architecture while strengthening what already makes the avenue successful. Across six developments, Arlington is developing almost 700 residential homes, 33 individually curated commercial retail spaces and approximately 250,000 square feet of new retail space. Arlington’s investment began with the retrofit of National Block, home to National on 17th, and High Street, located adjacent to Western Canada High School. The firm has since completed Enzo at 17th Avenue and 8th Street S.W., directly across from Tomkins Park, and The Fifth at 17th Avenue and 5th Street S.W. The next chapter includes Francesco, a 16-storey mixed-use development that will introduce 200 residential homes and an additional 12,000

The Sentinel

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

The Fifth

“The city’s centre was really the cultural coalescence of artisans, business people, philosophers, prophets, orators, merchants, food, wine and everything in between. These are the components that make a thriving urban metropolis.” — Frank Lonardelli, Arlington CEO and founder square feet of retail space. In the latter half of 2027, The Sentinel, located on the largest assembled development site in the Beltline, will add another 320 curated residential homes and 15,000 square feet of retail space.

Strengthening the city centre The ongoing and long-term investments on 17th Avenue stem from a fundamental belief in the cultural potential of a city’s centre. “If you go back to ancient times and look towards Athens or Rome, everything emanated from and within the city,” says Arlington CEO and founder Frank Lonardelli. “It really was the cultural coalescence of artisans, business people, philosophers, prophets, orators, merchants, food, wine and everything in between. These are the components that make a thriving urban metropolis.” The Arlington Group aims to add to that urban fabric through its audacious plan within the 17th Avenue corridor.

Enzo

Despite the challenges of building on a street actively frequented by 60,000 Calgarians seeking the city’s best food and entertainment, Lonardelli says it is not only an important pursuit, but in fact, a worthwhile one that Arlington believes will stand the test of time.

Worth the work To create a more cohesive, community-oriented and long-term investment in the iconic urban corridor, Arlington purchased 42 separately titled commercial buildings, parking lots and apartments. By

consolidating the separate buildings into significantly larger developments, Arlington helps bring a meaningful number of individuals to live, play, shop and work downtown. On an iconic street like 17th Avenue, the investment is high effort and ideally high reward. “We’re in it for the long term, but we fundamentally believe we’re on the precipice of something brilliant within this corridor,” says Lonardelli. “Internally, we know it is something we will be able to look back on and say, ‘That was a worthy endeavour and a job well done by the entire team.’”

To learn more, visit arlingtonstreet.ca/developments

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

LED BY THE LAND:

Inside Taza Park Rooted in Tsuut’ina land and values, Taza Park is becoming one of Southern Alberta’s most distinctive new places to live, share experiences and explore.

“Any good community design asks how to create places that people resonate with,” says Travis Oberg, Taza’s VP of land development. “Tsuut’ina culture is foundational to Taza Park, and we want that to be reflected in thoughtful design details that help people feel connected.” The result is a community that speaks to both memory and momentum. One that honours the land’s cultural roots while creating a contemporary place for new residents, businesses and visitors.

Designed for gathering Gathering is central to the vision for Taza Park. Across the community, public spaces are being planned to support how people naturally come together through play, conversation, movement and shared experience. Residents will find quiet parks and open spaces, active playgrounds, dog parks, pathways, observation areas and future public art installations. These spaces are not treated as leftover land between homes and roads. They are part of the community’s structure, located within walking distance and designed to help people feel connected to their neighbours and the broader Taza story. “This is a walkable, bikeable, nature-immersed community in the most genuine sense,” says Oberg. “Green corridors and thoughtfully placed gathering spaces mean residents don’t just live near nature; they move through it daily.” Public art further strengthens the sense of identity. Installations by Tsuut’ina artists bring visual storytelling into the public realm, with design influenced by mountain forms, animals, dance ceremony, natural materials and patterns inspired by Tsuut’ina culture. The Central Ponds Promenade.

Black Birch Heights’ outdoor communal space.

t the southwest edge of Calgary, where the city meets the land of Tsuut’ina Nation, a new community is taking shape that feels both grounded and forward-looking. Taza Park is one of three distinct villages within Taza, the landmark mixed-use development created through a partnership between Tsuut’ina Nation and Canderel. Envisioned as a place for living, shopping, working, gathering and connection, Taza Park brings together the key ingredients for community development and sprinkles in something undeniably unique. What makes Taza Park different is not only its scale or location, but also the way the community is being shaped — with respect for the land, guidance from Tsuut’ina culture and a commitment to creating a place where everyday life feels connected to something larger.

A community influenced by nature and culture

Something wondrous is taking shape

Taza Park’s development is guided by years of partnership with Tsuut’ina Nation. A cultural working group that includes Tsuut’ina Elders, Nation members, the Tsuut’ina Development Authority and Taza representatives supports the integration of Tsuut’ina art, language, culture and values throughout the development. This work helps ensure that cultural expression is not added as an afterthought but considered from the earliest planning stages. Design elements throughout the community, such as street names and design, draw inspiration from Tsuut’ina culture in ways intended to feel respectful, authentic and enduring. Parks and pathways are being planned with native and adaptive plantings.

Taza Park is still growing, but its vision is already clear. It is designed to feel connected — to land, culture, nature, neighbours and the everyday experiences that make a place feel like home. For existing and future residents, that means more than choosing a house or a neighbourhood. It means becoming part of a village shaped by thoughtful planning, Tsuut’ina values, natural beauty and a long-term vision for how people can live well together.

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To learn more, visit taza.ca

CLOSER TO EVERYTHING experiencetazapark.com

WELCOME TO WONDROUS 131

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

REACH FOR THE SUMMIT

in Wentworth South

Trico Homes has taken condo living to new heights with its brand-new collection of designer homes at The Summit.

estled in the prestigious West Calgary community of Wentworth South, Summit condos deliver an elevated lifestyle where boutique shopping, fine dining and everyday essentials are all within reach, complemented by easy access to downtown Calgary and the Rocky Mountains. Life in Wentworth South is convenient and connected. Residents will enjoy countless amenities as the community grows, including a contemporary restaurant, gathering spaces and neighbouring, highly sought-after schools. Park space, pathways and nature reserves ensure residents don’t have to go far to enjoy the outdoors. When the mountains call, Kananaskis is less than an hour away, and with access to major roadways including Highway 1, Stoney Trail and Bow Trail, travel in and out of the city is seamless. “Few communities in Calgary can compare to this extraordinary southwest location,” says Jessica Sorrell, area sales manager at Trico Homes. “Whether you’re a weekend adventurer mapping out that next mountain hike or an urban explorer checking out the latest events and openings in Calgary, this westside location means you can reach it all with a short walk, a quick drive or a convenient LRT trip.”

homes, from the mid $400,000s, both with an option of an additional den, and all maintenancefree and with low condo fees. The Summit spans two buildings, one of which is currently pre-selling. There are 10 floor plan options for the 164 suites, ranging from 530 square feet to 1,038 square feet, with durable concrete slab construction. Inside the building, techsmart features, a fitness studio, electric vehicle charging stations, bike storage, a pet relief area and community gathering spaces make modern living easy. Plus, the suites are thoughtfully designed, with the latest in-home trends and designer interiors. Suites on floors one through five feature ninefoot ceilings, while top-floor suites include 12-foot

ceilings. Additional features include air conditioning, gas lines to decks, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, a full-sized stacked washer and dryer and your choice of three modern and timeless colour palettes. Trico Homes prides itself on delivering quality construction. Homes are built to last, with attention to detail and quality materials. Trico knows that a home is one of the most significant investments clients will make. As a member of the Alberta New Home Warranty Program, Trico ensures customers have peace of mind that their home will meet their needs for years to come.

Committed to community As Western Canada’s only Certified B Corp homebuilder — meaning it’s verified to meet high standards of social and environmental performance, public transparency and accountability — Trico Homes makes decisions based on how they will impact workers, customers, suppliers and the environment. “For Trico, supporting our community is fundamentally tied to our values, mission and vision,” says Glenda Schwartz, director of marketing. “We will always endeavour to do well as a company, while also doing good in our community.” Over the next few years, as The Summit is under construction, Trico Homes will host special events for current and future residents, including grassroots community events, such as yoga in the park and more, elevating the sense of community and building awareness of Wentworth South.

Modern condo living The Summit at Wentworth South offers flexible living options. Designs include one-bedroom homes, starting from the low $300,000s, and two-bedroom

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To learn more, visit TricoHomes.com/summit-condos

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

SMALL-TOWN LIVING

in Rangeview

Through shared programming and outdoor amenities, this southeast neighbourhood strengthens community connection.

n a digital world that promises constant connectivity, many actually end up feeling disconnected from the communities they live in and the neighbours with whom they share space. Born from a farming legacy and with family-owned roots, Rangeview aims to revive a highly sought-after small-town feel. Through community spaces, events and amenities that nod to the land's agricultural roots, this new southeast neighbourhood promises a healthier, more connected lifestyle.

Family-owned roots In 1923, the Ollerenshaw family settled in Southeast Calgary and farmed the land where Rangeview currently sits for many decades. Two generations later, Robert Ollerenshaw founded Section23 Developments, Rangeview’s developer. “Rangeview’s history is deeply woven into the character of the community today,” says Sarah Harman, Section23 Developments’ marketing manager. “Incorporating urban agriculture into the community was an important way to preserve the family legacy and shape a neighbourhood unlike any other in Alberta.” Rangeview’s farming history informs the garden-to-table-themed amenities available to residents, such as its community gardens and greenhouses. The neighbourhood’s family-owned origins are deeply integrated — Rangeview is even named after the rural, one-room schoolhouse that Robert’s father attended nearby.

“Family values have always been a huge part of the vision for Rangeview,” says Harman. “It’s reflected in everything from the community’s design to the experiences that bring neighbours together.”

Amenities for a healthier lifestyle Rangeview’s community programming is primarily organized by its Homeowners Association (HOA), which has a dual focus — bringing people together and promoting healthy living through movement and food education. By growing food in the community greenhouses and hosting cooking classes, the HOA is responsible for the bulk of the neighbourhood’s garden-to-table focus. Collaboratively growing and preparing healthy food also offers an important educational component. “We developed a lot of our amenity spaces early on in the community,” explains Harman about Section23’s effort to avoid delayed access to amenities for early homebuyers. “Within six months of opening, we had the greenhouse built.” Rangeview’s other community spaces also lend themselves to being in nature and moving your body. A completed park allows young ones to stay active close to home, and the wetland and storm pond are surrounded by walkable pathway systems. A central greenway boasts the two greenhouses, as well as a bee apiary where the community can produce its own honey.

Bringing back a small-town feel In a digital age, knowing your neighbours can feel like a long-gone luxury. “I think that’s what a lot of people these days are feeling they’re missing,” says Harman. To mend the gap of day-to-day human connection, Section23 regularly hosts events. “We have really great attendance for these events, and a lot of neighbours who come out,” says Harman. In early June 2026, Section23 hosted a communitywide scavenger hunt in Rangeview, which saw around 800 attendees, with about half of them neighbourhood kids. “Neighbours that know each other support each other,” says Harman. “That’s a feel that Rangeview has that a lot of people are looking for, especially when they’re raising their kids and want them to know their neighbours.” To learn more, visit section23.com/communities/rangeview

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EX P E RIE N C E EXP

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

AN ABUNDANCE OF GREEN

in Shawnee Park

GREEN

BY THE NUMBERS • 25 per cent of the community is dedicated to green spaces • 33 acres of parks and green space • A 15-metre greenbelt surrounds most of Shawnee Park • 580 mature trees within Shawnee Park

This southwest inner-city

• 3,000+ trees to be added

community features luxury homes

• 3,000 acres to explore in nearby Fish Creek Park, including…

surrounded by expansive green

• 80+ kilometres of trails for walking and biking within the provincial park

spaces and mature trees.

ou can’t get much closer to Fish Creek Park than this new southwest community. Built on the last developable land near one of the largest urban parks in Canada, Shawnee Park by Cardel Homes is surrounded by thousands of acres of nature, and integrates an impressive amount of mature trees, parks, pathways and green spaces within the neighbourhood itself.

80 kilometres of walking and biking trails. While in close proximity to expansive natural spaces, Shawnee Park remains connected to amenities and major routes. The community is already in an established area, meaning that schools, shopping centres and medical services are only a few minutes away. And for further ventures, the Fish Creek–Lacombe LRT station is right next to the neighbourhood and gets you around the city without a car.

Surrounded by nature Shawnee Park isn’t just located near nature; it actively creates space for it. The community boasts a whopping 33 acres of parks and green space — an entire quarter of the community is dedicated to keeping nature at residents’ doorsteps. Ten of those acres are part of West Park at the centre of Shawnee Park, which features a playground, a gazebo with picnic tables, wetlands, walking trails and even pickleball and basketball courts that transform into a wintertime ice rink. Thanks to these additional amenities, residents can stay active in Shawnee Park’s impressive outdoor areas while having shared spaces to meet their neighbours. A 15-metre greenbelt surrounds most of Shawnee Park, which creates a natural barrier between neighbouring communities. Outside of Shawnee Park’s borders, residents can explore up to 3,000 acres of green space in the nearby Fish Creek Park, a provincial park that features more than

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Better design and quality For a soft place to land after good times spent outdoors, Cardel Homes is bringing its unwavering

commitment to quality and keen eye for design to Shawnee Park’s luxury homes. Now selling lots in phase three, known as Shawnee Landing, homebuyers can find singlefamily homes on the community's north side, which directly borders Fish Creek Park. In this phase, exciting designs like estate triple-car garages and luxury courtyard models are available. Phase 11 in Shawnee Park, also known as The Passage, offers double-front garage homes starting from the $880,000s. Because of the 15-metre greenbelt that surrounds most of the neighbourhood, many phase 11 homes available have lots that back onto established mature trees and pathways. To make the deal even sweeter, the homes come with fully landscaped yards, including rear decks and irrigation. With nature at your front door and quality homes, made with elevated exterior finishes and premium interior features, Shawnee Park is a great choice for a new home in an established southwest neighbourhood.

To learn more, visit cardelhomes.com/alberta/shawnee-park

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Fireside:

WHERE ADVENTURE BEGINS Halfway between complete wilderness and big-city fun, this community grants easy access to all kinds of adventure.

ust 30 minutes away from the Rocky Mountains, Fireside is an established Cochrane community that places residents within arm’s reach of outdoor activities.

Fit for active lifestyles “Fireside is really known for that spirit of adventure,” says Edmundo Azuaje, manager of marketing and communications at Calbridge Developments, the developer behind Fireside. “Most of the people who live in Fireside love the outdoors and go to the mountains, camp or play sports on a weekly basis.” Here, residents find their fix of adventure close to home — Fireside is equipped with an NHL-sized outdoor ice rink, a pump track, a skatepark, three soccer fields, a baseball diamond, pathways and wetlands. Cochrane is also home to river sports, with nearby trails and hiking through provincial parks. If you’re looking to incorporate metropolitan outings to your adventurous lifestyle, you don’t have to look far. Thanks to the area’s proximity to major highways, it’s only a 20-minute drive to Calgary’s city limits. Everyday amenities are also easy to access with Fireside’s plaza, The Embers, a 30,000-square-foot shopping area that boasts restaurants, coffee shops, medical and dental offices, boutiques and more.

Developed for family adventure Beyond the parks, sports fields and playgrounds that let kids be kids, proximity to schools is another community perk for young families. Fireside offers two schools, both K-8, and a daycare, providing families with access to early education within walking distance.

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“Fireside has over 15 years of growth, becoming an established community where families can settle in from day one. Schools, parks, pathways, shopping and everyday amenities are already in place. There’s no waiting to start enjoying the lifestyle you’ve been looking for,” says Azuaje. Fireside’s three reputable builders offer a variety of home types, so every family can find something that fits their needs. Buyers can choose from laned homes, front-drive homes, street towns and duplexes. All homes meet Calbridge Developments’ quality standards and offer a cohesive aesthetic throughout the community. Home styles take inspiration from the surrounding landscapes, using warm earth tones and vibrant colours, and each interprets traditional Craftsman/ Arts and Crafts, Farmhouse, Prairie and Mountain styles. An exciting new phase of development is right around the corner, with homes in a quieter, more private area with larger lots and, of course, quick access to the mountains, where adventure awaits.

The next phase of Fireside — Grand Opening September 19 As Fireside continues to develop, the first release of phase 13 will be aimed at families looking for more spacious homes close to the great outdoors, with a grand opening event September 19. The opening event will offer family-friendly activities, games and a chance to meet Calbridge Developments to learn more about the community. Sitting on Fireside’s southwest corner, phase 13 will have lots up to 34 feet wide, complete with breathtaking views of the nearby Rocky Mountains. For growing families, living in Fireside means more space in the home and more time to explore the community's amenities and surrounding landscapes. You can get some extra sleep before a morning hike, send the kids off to the skatepark without worry or meet your neighbours in the community garden. To learn more, visit firesidecochrane.com

YOur basecamp for adventure Adventure begins at home. Surrounded by mountain views, scenic pathways, parks, schools, and everyday amenities, Fireside of Cochrane offers the perfect balance of adventure, connection, and convenience.

visit our Brand new show homes!

Now selling in Phase 13, discover thoughtfully designed homes with scenic views, a quieter setting, and a future dog park just steps away. Visit our brand-new show home parade and see why Fireside is the perfect place to begin your next adventure.

single family

duplexes

townhomes

from the

$580s

$470s

$480s

Homes by

calbridge cardel genesis

firesidecochrane.com 139

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

Munro:

ELEVATING THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE A new rental community offers modern comfort and access to amenities that cater to students’ needs.

“We recognized that many students, particularly graduate students, international students and those seeking a more independent lifestyle, are looking for more than a basic place to sleep,” says Naomi Kiist, residential marketing and leasing coordinator with Royop. “They want a home that supports their academic success while offering the comfort, convenience and amenities found in a modern residential community.” At Munro, this is what they’ll find.

along with modern kitchens, in-suite laundry and large windows for natural light. Beyond the suites, residents have access to a dedicated study and boardroom space, nearby restaurants, shopping and entertainment, and a Calgary Co-op grocery store directly downstairs. When students need to get outside for a quick study break, Munro Park, set to open this fall, is right across the street. It will feature basketball courts, walkable garden spaces and large, open green areas to unwind with friends. “Whether it's studying in a dedicated workspace, hosting friends in amenity areas, enjoying nearby restaurants or simply coming home to a bright, modern suite, residents have access to an elevated living experience that helps them thrive throughout their academic journey,” says Kiist. Among Munro’s 189 residential units, students can choose between one- and two-bedroom suites, starting at $1,590 and $2,100 per month, respectively, with a variety of floor plans available to complement each individual lifestyle.

“The spacious layouts offer flexibility for students who need room for study desks, home office setups or shared living arrangements with roommates,” says Jen Gao, Munro’s leasing agent. “Munro offers a purposefully designed residential experience that supports students both academically and personally.” Among the building’s amenities, students can take advantage of a lounge area, a games room, a fitness centre, a dog wash area, a conference room, a sauna and outdoor patios with barbecues.

Without the compromise Strategically located, Munro puts students attending four of Calgary’s post-secondary institutions within a short commute of home. SAIT and the Alberta University of the Arts are an 11-minute drive away, the University of Calgary is a 14-minute drive and Mount Royal University is 20 minutes away. Once at home, the area offers easy access to neighbourhood gems, such as Boogies Burgers, Peter’s Drive-In and Milk Ice Cream Club, so life doesn’t have to be all books and homework. “What sets Munro apart is its combination of accessibility, lifestyle and quality. Rather than sacrificing comfort for proximity, students at Munro enjoy both,” says Gao. “Most importantly, Munro offers a lifestyle that extends beyond the classroom.”

Room to thrive To help support student success, Munro offers suites with spacious layouts and room for home offices,

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To learn more about life at Munro, visit lifeatmunro.com

P H OTOGR AP H S BY ( TO P) JASO N DZ IVE R ; ( BOT TOM ) MA XW ELL M AWJI

entrally located in Winston Heights in Northeast Calgary, Munro, a new rental community, puts students close to post-secondary institutions and helps bridge the gap between student housing and premium rental living.

1 MONTH FREE RENT Applicable to a 13-month lease

Welcome to 1 Beds starting at $1,590 · 2 Beds starting at $2,050

Luxury rental living designed around your lifestyle. Steps from downtown, SAIT and the University of Calgary, Munro combines modern homes, premium amenities and everyday convenience in one exceptional address.

Schedule a Tour lifeatmunro.com

• Fitness Centre • Study & Co-working Spaces • Social Lounge • Game Room • Pet Wash Station

NOW RENTING The developer reserves the right to make changes and modifications to the information contained herein without prior notice. E. &O.E. Royop Residential, a Division of Royop Development Corporation. 141

A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

Silverton:

BUILT TO GROW WITH YOU Designed to suit every stage of life, this master-planned community serves as a quiet retreat with easy access to the city.

ituated at the southwest edge of Calgary, Silverton is a peaceful community that boasts comfort, connection and convenience. Developed by Cardel Homes, this neighbourhood offers a diverse selection of home styles alongside seamless access to major highways and local, established amenities, ensuring residents stay connected to everything they need — now and in the future.

A cohesive architectural approach A variety of home types in phase five are now selling in Silverton, including duplexes, front-garage homes, laned homes and street towns. For apartment living, Metro One is one of Silverton’s newest condo developments, featuring one- and two-bedroom designs, starting from the $220,000s. The condos provide a choice of professionally curated interior styles, including unique balcony designs to choose from and seven floor plan options. Although Cardel’s homes range in selection and style, they all reflect Silverton’s modern-vintage character and Cardel’s commitment to quality builds. “From condos to front-garage single-family homes, every product type is held to the same architectural standard,” says Jessica Mix, Cardel Homes’ marketing manager. “This maintains both the community’s character and value as each phase is developed.”

An eye on longevity

Convenient access to amenities Being close to shops and services means your free time isn’t spent commuting, and can instead be allocated to the things that really matter. Within a 10-minute drive radius of Silverton, residents have access to two large grocery stores, recreational facilities, a public library, schools, health centres, golf clubs, entertainment venues like Spruce Meadows, and one of the largest urban parks in Canada, Fish Creek Provincial Park. Within the community, Silverton is walkable by design, offering the opportunity to stroll down the streets and get to know your neighbours. Access to Macleod and Stoney Trail keeps residents connected by providing a quick and easy trip to Calgary’s downtown core in only 20 minutes. As plans for a future nearby LRT station take shape, these connections will be even further strengthened in the future.

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Silverton’s range of home types means that homebuyers in every stage of life can find their perfect home within the community, from firsttime homebuyers to growing families looking for multigenerational housing. Additionally, as needs evolve, homeowners can upgrade or downsize by moving within the community. The range of available amenities also lends itself to changing needs — while access to nearby schools and playgrounds may be top of mind in one stage of life, health centres and golf clubs a few minutes away could be exactly what a later stage calls for. “Silverton is a community that works for where you are today and grows with you over time,” says Mix. Developed with a focus on maintaining quality and character from the first phase to the last, Silverton is a community fit for every stage of life. To learn more, visit cardelhomes.com/alberta/silverton/

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

Crystal Creek:

Black Birch Heights.

A HOME FOR ALL

Choose from villa and condo living in the community of Taza Park.

aza Park is among the new master-planned communities in Tsuut’ina Nation, where modern living meets nature’s beauty just southwest of Calgary. Positioned near the Glenmore Reservoir with a pathway system connected to Weaselhead Flats Natural Environment Park and 50 acres of additional green space, Taza Park makes outdoor living easy. Taza Park has been designed to welcome everyone. Within the community,

Crystal Creek Homes’ condos and villas echo this inviting principle. Its homes offer something for all buyers, whether you’re a first-time buyer, downsizer or looking for low-maintenance living. Black Birch Heights is a six-storey condominium offering one- and twobedroom apartment homes, starting from the $299,000s. Those looking for elevated living and community connection will find it here. Inside the apartments, residents enjoy modern living with premium features, including quartz countertops, tile finishes and designer lighting, and outside, residents can gather on the rooftop patio with epic mountain views or in the central outdoor hub. “Black Birch Heights is an exciting opportunity to bring thoughtfully designed, attainable condo living to Taza Park. With a range of home options, elevated finishes and access to one of Southwest Calgary’s most unique and desirable natural settings, this community offers buyers the chance to get in early and be part of something truly special,” says Richard Daley, president, multi-family, at Crystal Creek. For those seeking more space, Juniper Ridge Villas offer a variety of layouts and living options. Starting in the high $600,000s, find villas with two-car garages, walkout basements, secondary suites and loft options to choose from. Designed for modern living and located in an environment rich with natural beauty, Juniper Ridge Villas blend tranquillity with home luxury, ideal for those looking for an elevated lifestyle rooted in connection with the outdoors. To learn more, visit crystalcreekhomes.ca

A Natural Approach to Modern Living Introducing a new standard of condo living at Taza Park. Black Birch Heights features two six-storey buildings in an exceptional southwest location, surrounded by nature, connected to everyday amenities, and designed for elevated, low-maintenance living. Steps from the Weaselhead Flats.

Buy Early. Build Long-Term Value.

Elevated Finishes, Included.

Rooftop Views Above It All.

Limited-Time Introductory Pricing starting from

$299’s Now Selling Scan for more information

BlackBirchHeights.ca Sales and Marketing Centre: 5894 Tsuut’ina Parkway 587-287-1818 | Blackbirchheights@crystalcreekhomes.ca Showhome hours: Mon – Thu: 1 – 7 pm | Sat – Sun: 12 – 5 pm Holidays: 12 – 5 pm | Closed Friday

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A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

ESTATE LIVING AT ITS FINEST

in Pinnacle Estates Phase two of the new Cochrane community delivers sweeping mountain vistas, protected green space and room to breathe.

here are few communities in Cochrane where you can still purchase an estate lot with breathtaking views. Pinnacle Estates is one of them. Launched in 2022, Pinnacle Estates is preparing to release its next phase, offering another opportunity to build your dream home in one of Cochrane’s most sought-after locations. Nestled within the established community of Sunset Ridge, Pinnacle Estates overlooks rolling farmland, Bighill Creek Valley, the Town of Cochrane and the stunning Rocky Mountain skyline, delivering panoramic views. “Imagine stepping onto your deck each morning to endless green space, Cochrane below and the Rocky Mountains stretching across the horizon. It’s a view that never gets old, and one you’ll be proud to call home,” says Erin Cripps, manager, sales & marketing for Calgary Communities.

With spacious estate lots ranging from 36 to 48 feet wide, including walkout lots and opportunities for triple-car garages, you can create a custom home that embraces both nature and luxury in Pinnacle Estates. Residents can enjoy kilometres of scenic pathways, green spaces, parks, playgrounds and a 6.5-acre naturalized pond. Developed by Melcor Developments, Sunset Ridge is home to two schools — one K-8 school and a junior/senior high school — and a new community centre is in the works. Once complete, the Sunset Ridge Community Centre will bring a skating rink, a new playground, outdoor seating areas, sports fields and a communal indoor space to the community. Five award-winning builders construct Pinnacle Estates’ elevated homes. Phase one estate homes are now selling — only a few lots remain — and soon, phase two lots will also be available. With premium indoor living and outdoor adventure just beyond the front door, Pinnacle Estates sets the bar for active living and luxury. To learn more, email inquireyyc@melcor.ca or visit pinnacleestates.ca

Contact our builders & reserve your lot today. Estate lots with spectacular mountain-vista views, in the stunning setting of Cochrane.

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Global News Hour at 6 with Dallas Flexhaug

We are Calgary. Globalnews.ca 146

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

HALLIE LINDSTEIN, CASE MANAGER, CONNECTS WITH A RESIDENT AT THE SENIORS AGING IN PLACE PROGRAM.

P H OTO BYRITSKTMACART KTK TKT HU KT KTK TK RT ESY OF TH E ALE X . ALL PH OTOS BY CH R , COU

LET THERE

BE LIGHT

HOW THE ALEX IS CHANGING THE FACE OF COMMUNITY HEALTH FOR VULNERABLE POPULATIONS. BY ELIZABETH CHORNEY-BOOTH

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

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isitors to the medical clinic at The Alex Community Health Centre are met with the quote, “There is a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in,” painted prominently on the wall. The line, paraphrased from Leonard Cohen’s 1992 song, Anthem, has become a common adage for anyone struggling with hardship. In this bright and friendly doctor’s office, it carries a particular resonance. The patients who walk these halls may be experiencing homelessness, acute mental health and addiction issues, or a general lack of belonging in a constantly growing city. This place provides the light to lead them towards health, dignity and a sense of purpose. The organization’s name might be familiar from various fundraising initiatives boasting the centre’s bold orange logo. The Community Health Centre, at 2840 2 Ave. S.E, adjacent Youth Health Centre, and other facilities under The Alex umbrella (including The Alex Community Food Centre, Youth Health Bus and some other outreach services) are often embraced by local philanthropists. The Alex is a physical place, but it’s also a movement dedicated to offering a revolutionary, though remarkably sensible, model of multi-disciplinary health care. The Alex specializes in dignity-centred, judgment-free medical care. Calgarians experiencing poverty, mental or physical health challenges, addiction or social isolation can access integrated housing, health care and social services. In addition to the medical centre, its gleaming 61,000-square-foot building is home to housing services, a community kitchen, an Indigenous cultural space, a youth clinic, a rapid-access addiction clinic, and other community and healthcare programming. While vulnerable people can technically access family doctors and health care like other Calgarians, barriers such as a lack of identification, fear of stigmatization, and a general distrust of those in

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“IT IS EXCEPTIONALLY DIFFICULT TO HAVE TO NAVIGATE CALGARY’S SYSTEM WHEN YOU’VE GOT ALL YOUR BELONGINGS IN A BACKPACK OR A SHOPPING CART.” JOY BOWEN-EYRE, CEO, THE ALEX

positions of authority can keep The Alex’s patients away from traditional services. Putting everything under one roof gives clients a better chance of following through on appointments, prescriptions and preventative treatment. “It is exceptionally difficult to have to navigate

Calgary’s system when you’ve got all your belongings in a backpack or a shopping cart,” says CEO Joy Bowen-Eyre. “You’re trying to stay awake, to be able to keep your belongings and yourself safe, to find shelter every night and food every day. It’s exhausting. Walking into a hospital because you need help is probably the last thing you’re going to do.” The Alex started in 1973 at the Alexandra Community Centre in Inglewood when a doctor, a nurse and a social worker saw the potential to combine medical care and social work in a public clinic. Through fundraising and government support, the organization expanded with

AJOY SEHGAL, COMMUNITY FOOD CENTRE PROGRAM COORDINATOR PREPARES MEALS DURING MEAL SERVICE.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

new programming, and the first version of a centralized Community Health Centre, opened in the city’s core on Centre Street in 2006. Operations quickly spread to additional buildings. In 2017, The Alex moved into its new integrated location, strategically positioned near the Franklin LRT station. There are other community health-care centres in Canada taking a similar approach, but none are as large as The Alex. Using both social and medical services to encourage people to come through the doors is part of what makes The Alex unique compared to other multi-disciplinary health centres. For many patients,

“EVERY ALBERTAN SHOULD HAVE THE KIND OF HEALTH CARE THAT WE HAVE HERE AT THE ALEX.” JOY BOWEN EYRE, CEO, THE ALEX

the first access point is a meal at the Community Health Centre’s community kitchen, spurred by the lure of a judement-free breakfast or lunch and a hot cup of coffee. From there, visitors might feel comfortable enough making an appointment with a family doctor, connect-

BRAD RAINS, YOUTH HEALTH CLINIC CASE MANAGER WALKS THROUGH THE COMMUNITY HEALTH CLINIC.

JESSICA WHEELER, MOBILE HEALTH REGISTERED NURSE, REVIEWS TESTS ON THE COMMUNITY HEALTH BUS.

SOPHIA SHTEPA, EVALUATION AND

COMMUNITY HEALTH

IMPACT SPECIALIST, BEADS IN THE

CLINIC WAITING AREA.

ISSPOMAANITAPI (INDIGENOUS PROGRAMMING SPACE).

AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

ing with the housing team or participating in a cultural activity. The medical clinic will treat any lowincome Calgarian who does not have a family doctor, as well as Indigenous and 2SLGBTQ+ Calgarians of all income levels, by appointment or walk-in — it operates like any family doctor’s office, rather than an urgent-care centre or hospital. “All of our clients have plenty of strengths and skills,” says Dr. Erik Singendonk, the medical director and an active physician at the Community Health Centre. “They’ve lived through really challenging things. They just don't know how to use those strengths or skills to solve the problems in front of them. They’re asking for help, and they’re going to apply themselves the best they can.” Singendonk has worked with The Alex since 2014, and that dedication to the organization is not unusual amongst staff. Bowen-Eyre says part of what makes The Alex successful is a high level of employee retention. Clients recognize friendly faces when they come in, but it also speaks to the entire team’s belief in The Alex’s mission. “When you look at the fact that one in five Canadians don’t have access to a primary care doctor, we’ve got 64 doctors choosing to work for us, I think we’re doing something right,” Bowen-Eyre says. It’s not just the employees who buy into The Alex’s mission. The organization has several partners throughout the city, such as the Calgary Board of Education and the Calgary Catholic School District, all of which are keenly interested in the health of our most vulnerable citizens. For example, knowing not everyone in need will come into the Community Health Centre, The Alex sends family doctors and psychiatrists into the Calgary Drop-In Centre for an outreach medical clinic to support the complex needs of shelter residents. “If these really high-needs people were not being supported by The Alex in the way that they are, it would have a dramatic impact on visible homelessness, probably an impact on social disorder, and most importantly, people would not be served in the way that they need or deserve,” says

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THE ALEX BY THE NUMBERS

PEER SUPPORT WORKERS, ROBERT TATTI (LEFT) AND JAMIE YELLOW SUN, IN

(ANNUALLY)

THE ISSPOMAANITAPI (INDIGENOUS PROGRAMMING SPACE).

More than 104,000 overall visits to health or social programs More than 26,000 visits to the Youth Health Centre (both social and medical) Drop-in Centre CEO Sandra Clarkson. “Homelessness isn’t just about housing. It’s also interconnected with health. The more we look at a person holistically, the better outcomes we can hope for those individuals.” Government is on board, too. Approximately 56 per cent of The Alex’s $36 million revenue comes from the Government of Alberta. Additional philanthropic fundraising augments government funding for services, including additional mental health supports, the community kitchen and mobile health programs. Despite controversy surrounding the new provincial health-care restructuring, Bowen-Eyre says that some of the reforms have already had a positive impact on The Alex. In late 2024, The Alex received a substantial grant from Primary Care Alberta, recognizing the benefit of attaching vulnerable people to primary care providers, which can potentially reduce expensive emergency room visits. Municipal politicians also recognize how The Alex is improving the health of people living on the streets, which contributes to overall safety within the city. “The Alex Community Health Centre is filling a critical gap in our city by bringing physical health, mental health, and social supports together under one roof,

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LYNDON ULMER, MOBILE RESOURCE AND FLEET COORDINATOR, WELCOMES VISITORS ABOARD THE COMMUNITY HEALTH BUS.

More than 11,000 Senior Health Centre visits More than 6,000 encounters by the Street Team

without barriers, judgment, or red tape,” says Mayor Jeromy Farkas in an emailed comment. “For Calgarians facing complex challenges, this integrated, one-stop model isn’t just innovative, it’s essential. When we invest in care that meets people where they are, we don’t just improve individual outcomes, we build a healthier, more resilient community for everyone.” That sentiment hasn’t been confined to Alberta. After connecting with Australian health-care representatives at a conference in 2024, Bowen-Eyre was approached by Primary Health Networks in New South Wales to consult on adopting

a community health centre model on a wider scale. While the method is currently only being applied to vulnerable populations here in Alberta, there’s no telling what our province could look like if everyone living here could access a similar philosophy of community care. “Every Albertan should have the kind of health care that we have here at The Alex,” Bowen-Eyre says. “But if that’s not possible, let’s continue to do it for the vulnerable population because they’re the ones who have the most difficulty in terms of their barriers and navigation.”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

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T H A N K YO U T O OUR SPONSORS FOR ALLOWING US TO C E L E B R AT E C A L G A RY ’ S B E ST D R E S S E D I N ST Y L E !

CLASS OF 2026 CELEBRATION

NOVEMBER 19, 2026 AT THE BELLA CONCERT HALL, MOUNT ROYAL UNIVERSITY

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THE DAILY GRIND

CALGARY’S BEST COFFEE SHOPS FOR WORK, PLAY, DELICIOUS FOOD AND COFFEE. WORDS BY ALANA WILLERTON PHOTOS BY JARED SYCH

s the sun rises, so begins the rhythms and routines of Calgary’s coffee shops. Fresh pots of coffee begin to bubble and brew, counters are wiped, chairs are pulled off tables and settled into place. And soon, bleary-eyed patrons begin to stream in, seeking that energizing cup of caffeinated

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goodness to start their day. Coffee shops have always been popular gathering spots for a hot drink. But nowadays, they’re also a lot more. They’re places to work or study deep into the night with a hot cup of coffee to fuel new ideas. Places to discover new coffee techniques and flavours. Places for much-needed catch-ups with friends over a freshly baked pastry. And places to take the plunge of meet-

ing someone new, setting the tone for dates and new connections with their ambiance and comfortableness. No matter why you visit, there’s no denying that today’s coffee shops need to offer more than just decent java. Thankfully, Calgary coffee shops are rising to the occasion with helpful amenities, freshly made bites and cool, relaxing ambiences for a variety of occasions. And, of course, they sling a mean cup of joe.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026

MONOGRAM COFFEE

Coffee Shops for STUDYING/WORKING MONOGRAM COFFEE BRITANNIA

marble tables and green and white tiling. There’s a fully halal menu with sandwiches, bowls and baked goods, as well as both classic and creative drinks. It’s open until 11 p.m. from Monday to Saturday (and until 9 p.m. on Sundays), making it a great spot for late-night work and study sessions. 100, 550 6 Ave. S.W., @caffelevant Seats: 45 Outlets: 14

In August 2025, Monogram Coffee’s Britannia café moved next door into Primary Colours’ former (and much larger) space. The move brought a wide variety of seating and plenty of handy electrical outlets in a warm, inviting environment. Food and drink are still at the forefront, with a small, yet elevated mix of brunch and all-day dishes, as well as a creative coffee program backed by world-class baristas (there are several Canadian Barista Championship titles and World Barista Championship placements among the team). The result is one of Calgary’s most well-rounded coffee shops. 800 49 Ave. S.W., 587-742-8982, monogramcoffee.com Seats: Approximately 56 Outlets: 8

MOBSQUAD CAFÉ

CAFFE LEVANT With an interior by Alykhan Velji Designs, Caffe Levant offers a sophisticated ambience for your next work meeting with its warm green seating,

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This café on the 21st floor of The Edison building in downtown Calgary offers stunning city views to accompany your next daytime work or study sesh. There’s a mix of tables, booths and bar seating (try to snag a bar seat along the windows for outlet access and inspiring views), plus a menu of coffee drinks made with beans from Gravity Coffee Roasters, pastries and other snacks to keep you fuelled. 2100, 150 9 Ave. S.W., @mobsquadcafe Seats: 70 Outlets: 20

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Coffee Shops for FOODIES BUTTER BLOCK & CO. Follow the smell of freshly baked pastries down the hallways of the Devenish Building to Butter Block & Co., a cheerful space serving coffee from Canmore’s Eclipse Coffee Roasters and incredibly flaky pastries made in the bakery (complete with a viewing room) across the hall. Indulge in double-baked sesame croissants, chocolate banana bread pudding, sausage and kimchi Danishes, Portuguese egg tarts and more. Suite 111, 908 17 Ave. S.W. butterblockyyc.com Seats: 22 in café and 4 in bakery viewing room Outlets: 8 in café and 3 in bakery viewing room On the menu: Freshly baked pastries

ALFORNO EAU CLAIRE This local bakery and café chain has eight locations across Calgary, but its original Eau Claire location is the biggest in both size and number of food offerings thanks to its in-house kitchen. Along with an Italian-inspired coffee program, the chef-driven menu includes brunch dishes like berry chai French toast, pizza and pasta for lunch and dinner, and a variety of house-made pastries. Enjoy it all in the skylight-filled space near the Bow River. 222 7 St. S.W., 403-454-0308 alforno.ca Seats: 60 inside, 25 outside On the menu: Everything from brunch to dinner, plus desserts and baked goods

ALENN SANDWICH & COFFEE Whether you’re looking for a place to grab a quick bite with a friend or a spot to relax with coffee and a book, this Varsity café strikes just

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ENJOY A BRIGHT WINDOW SEAT AT BUTTER BLOCK & CO.

the right balance. Classic coffee drinks are complemented by more creative offerings like the iced chocolate cream banana coffee cloud or hazelnut honeybush tea latte. And along with pastries and other snacks, there are 14 made-to-order sandwich options ranging from a BLT breakfast sandwich to the popular turkey cranberry brie. 120, 5403 Crowchild Tr. N.W., 587-317-2791, alennsandwichcoffee.com Seats: 57 Outlets: 12 On the menu: Made-to-order sandwiches and both classic and creative coffee drinks

D R I N K S A N D PA S T R I E S AT B U T T E R B LO C K & C O.

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LOCAL ART COMPLEMENTS SEMANTICS CAFE'S INDUSTRIAL CHIC VIBE.

Coffee Shops for A DATE FENYK COFFEE & SOCIAL Few things are more annoying than showing up to a coffee shop for a date and finding all the seats are taken. Thankfully, Fenyk has you covered with 80 seats at its original café at Northland mall in Brentwood and 120 seats at its larger southwest location at the Podium Apartments near WinSport. Open until 10 p.m. most nights, both locations offer substantial food menus if you and your date start to feel snacky. And along with non-alcoholic drinks like coffee, tea, smoothies and Italian sodas, you can order beer and wine (plus cocktails at the Winsport location) if the mood strikes. 110, 5049 Northland Dr. N.W. and 10 Canada Olympic Common S.W. (Winsport) 403-906-2592, fenykcoffee.com Seats: 80 (Northland), 120 (Winsport) Outlets: 18 (Northland), 27 (Winsport)

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Closing times: Both locations open until 10 p.m. Monday to Saturday, 8 p.m. on Sundays. Vibe: Modern and spacious

SEMANTICS CAFE With a roster of events ranging from live music to crafting workshops, there's no shortage of things to keep you and your date entertained at this Beltline café with a cool industrial vibe. There's local art on the walls, games to play, and an interesting selection of more than 300 new and used vinyl records and books to peruse together. If the date goes well, finish the night by snapping a photo in the Lucky Snaps vintage photo booth for $7. 1010 1 St. S.E., 587-330-5532, semanticscafe.com Seats: 34 Outlets: 6 Closing times: 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday Vibe: Industrial chic

CANADIAN HERITAGE ROASTING CO. Located in the historic C.C. Snowdon building in Ramsay, this local roastery and coffee shop was founded by two wildland firefighters during a backpacking trip through Alberta. The spot brings a warm, cozy ambience with its rustic brick walls and handmade wooden tables and benches spread over two levels. The more than a century-old backstory of the heritage building is a great icebreaker as you chat over pastries from Canela Vegan Bakery or, on Fridays and Saturdays, creative cookies from Sarah's Cookie Jar. 2020 11 St. S.E., 403-455-2472 canadianheritageroastingco.com Seats: 65 inside, 48 outside Outlets: 20 double outlets inside, 3 double outlets outside Closing times: 6 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday, 4 p.m. Sunday and Monday Vibe: Cozy and rustic

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Coffee Shops for COFFEE AFICIONADOS FOUNDER DAVID KIM EXPERTLY PREPARES COFFEE AT PARADIGM SPARK.

PARADIGM SPARK Paradigm Spark is all about collaboration, coffee education and, of course, a great cup of coffee. Led by founder, director and multi-time Canadian National Barista Championships contender David Kim, the café serves single-origin pourovers, espresso and blended coffee from Kim's on-site roastery. At the café's Experience Bar, guests can try special coffee offerings crafted by the in-house team or check out pop-up events and collaborations. Paradigm Spark is also home to Timberline Coffee School, a coffee training space offering everything from latte art classes to Specialty Coffee Association courses. 422 11 Ave. S.E., paradigmspark.com Seats: 40 Outlets: 3

SOUGHT X FOUND If you’re unfamiliar with the terms and flavours of the coffee world, don’t fret. Once you enter Sought x Found, the expert team will happily guide you towards your ideal drink and share the story behind their coffees. The shop roasts its coffee beans in-house, and each month there are three new coffees you can try in a coffee flight, which can be made three different ways. 916 Centre St. N., 403-830-7278 and 1107 4 St. S.W., 587-226-0754 soughtxfound.coffee Seats: Approximately 45 inside and 14 outside (Centre St.), approximately 25 inside (4 St. S.W.) Outlets: 9 (Centre St.), 4 (4 St. S.W)

EIGHT OUNCE COFFEE CLUB CAFE This Calgary-based specialty coffee equipment distributor isn't just your source for high-quality grinders, coffee makers and more — you can also try coffees from around the world at its inhouse café. Choose from four tiers of pour-overs, order a coffee flight or try a coffee competitioninspired flight. Before you leave, peruse the latest coffee equipment and the more than 500 local and international coffees in the Eight Ounce showroom. 2040, 2600 Portland St. S.E., 403-457-9844 eightouncecoffee.ca Seats: 35 Outlets: 3

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A BALANCED

Philosophy Ryuko’s latest restaurant location in Beacon Hill embraces the brand’s guiding principles, offering a welcoming experience for all.

t the heart of every Ryuko restaurant location is a food philosophy rooted in Japanese cuisine, quality ingredients and consistency. Guests can expect authentic Japanese food with a modern twist, made with thoughtfully sourced ingredients, such as bluefin tuna and salmon, from trusted suppliers around the globe. At the same time, Ryuko strikes a balance to ensure the experience is approachable and comfortable. “Our goal is to offer food that feels thoughtful, fresh and carefully prepared, whether guests are ordering sushi, sashimi, grilled dishes, noodles or shared plates,” says Chay Lee, Ryuko partner and chief strategy and brand officer. Now, guests can experience Ryuko’s balanced philosophy at its newest location in Beacon Hill. Inside, they’ll find a space that feels inviting, contemporary and slightly moodier than other locations. The space is also larger than the other Ryuko locations, with a private dining room ready to host group dinners, private events, celebrations and special occasions. In this larger space, friends and family can gather in an intimate setting and share moments over thoughtfully crafted dishes.

jOin Us fOr the

“Beacon Hill is a growing area with a strong sense of community, and we saw an opportunity to bring the Ryuko experience to the north side of the city in a way that felt thoughtful and intentional,” says Lee. “The fourth location is not about becoming bigger just for the sake of growth. It is about becoming better at what we do.” The menu offers unique features to its location, including yakitori-style specials, a new brunch menu and a weekend lunch omakase. Although every location may differ in atmosphere and menu specials, the Ryuko experience overarches every restaurant — one rooted in balance, where the experience is elevated yet not formal, and everyone can enjoy authentic Japanese flavours.

To learn more or make a reservation, visit ryuko.ca

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Tastemaker From a seasonal concession stand to one of Canada’s most celebrated restaurants, River Café has come to define Calgary’s taste of place.

BY ELIZABETH CHORNEY-BOOTH PHOTOS BY JARED SYCH

hen Sal Howell first set eyes on the building that would become her award-winning restaurant in Prince’s Island Park, it didn’t have any exterior walls — the structure was nothing more than a kiosk inside an aging, open-air concession stand where hungry park-goers could grab a hot dog or ice cream cone. Yet somehow Howell, who was only in her early 20s and a rare woman proprietor when she opened River Café in 1991, could picture a vibrant contemporary restaurant compelling enough to lure diners over the footbridge separating it from Calgary’s downtown. In almost anyone else’s hands, the idea would likely have fizzled out within a couple of years. Calgary is, after all, a car-oriented city full of people who choose restaurants based on their proximity to free parking. But Howell gave diners more than enough reason to make the trek to her urban oasis of thoughtfully prepared seasonal and sustainable food. River Café not only survived, but has now thrived long enough to celebrate its 35th anniversary while still sitting at the top of its game. “I wanted to create something that was timeless,” Howell says, waving her hand towards the rustic wooden tables, canoes and snowshoes that make up the restaurant’s decor. “This is the artist in me. I wanted the restaurant to grow out of where it is, so it felt like it had and would always belong here.”

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RED LENTIL HUMMUS FLATBREAD WITH BASIL PISTOU (LEFT) PAIRED WITH YUKON ARCTIC CHAR, TRAFFORD GREENS, FENNEL MARMALADE AND PUFFED WILD RICE.

Howell and her then-business partners, including the late Witold Twardowski and Teatro’s Dario Berloni, were known as the “Mescalero Group” through their involvement in the 1990s Calgary hotspot. Together they opened about 10 restaurants in the span of just a few years. But River Café was always Howell’s baby, and she eventually took full ownership. She initially ran the restaurant as a seasonal venue — you need walls to serve food through a Calgary winter — but renovated in 1995 to bring River Café to its current state. Guests who look closely will spot the original roof beams of the concession stand, but everything else came from Howell’s ambitious vision. If River Café’s history is unconventional,

its food philosophy has been even more so. It opened in an era marked by steak houses and the rowdiness of Electric Avenue. Restaurants garnering culinary accolades were typically showcasing imported European ingredients and ideas instead of homegrown dishes. Howell, by contrast, took her cues from the slow food movement and early ingredient-driven concepts like Alice Waters’ Chez Panisse in Berkeley, Calif., and Sooke Harbour House on Vancouver Island. Calgary didn’t have the same access to ingredients as either of those places in 1995, but Howell and her staff sought out local producers to create farm-to-table dishes evoking a taste of place, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. “We imagined what was raised on the plains and swam in the river,” Howell says. “That set us on a path, to figure that out and unlock it.” Since Howell is not a chef, she relied on a succession of executive chefs to match the food on the table with her vision for the restaurant. The restaurant’s food program eventually came to include an all-Canadian pantry with things like lemons and olive oil phased out in favour of domestically grown sumac and cold-pressed canola oil. Trout replaced more exotic fish, and bison took on a place of reverence. The names of local farms — places like Highwood Crossing and Broek Pork Acres — appeared on the menu, something many high-end restaurants in Calgary have since adopted. “To my knowledge, we were the first in our area to do that. It had a huge impact,” says Scott

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DINING CAPTION IF NEEDED

“QUOTE MAYBE.” Nhi Tran

LEFT TO RIGHT: ANNABEL BEAMES (HOWELL'S DAUGHTER, WHO ALSO WORKS AT THE RESTAURANT), SAL HOWELL, AND CHEFS KRISTEN LIVINGSTON AND CASSANDRA BOYCE.

DINERS ENJOY THE WELCOMING

P H OTO BY T KT KTK TKT KT KTK TK

AMBIANCE OF RIVER CAFÉ.

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“I WANTED THE RESTAURANT TO GROW OUT OF WHERE IT IS, SO IT FELT LIKE IT HAD AND WOULD ALWAYS BELONG HERE.” Sal Howell

Pohorelic, who was River Café’s executive chef from 2004 to 2010 and is now associate dean of culinary arts at SAIT. “The farms we named on the menus suddenly got way busier at the farmers’ market. It had this snowball effect and helped this community of local suppliers.” While many long-running local restaurants stay afloat through nostalgic appeal, River Café has managed to stay relevant despite its vintage. Howell’s 1995 design remains unchanged — some of the tables purchased during the openair days remain — but each executive chef has licence to put their own mark on the restaurant, provided they work within the parameters of the restaurant’s philosophy. River Café has had eight official executive chefs: Dwayne Ennest, Glen Manzer, Pohorelic, Andrew Winfield, Matthias Fong, Ross Bowles, Scott MacKenzie and current chef Kristen Livingston, each building off the work of their predecessor and pushing the restaurant into a new era. Livingston also serves as executive chef at River Café’s sister restaurant Deane House, and has chefs de cuisine — also women, making for an all-female kitchen leadership team for the first time in the businesses’ history — taking care of the day-to-day when she’s not in house. She takes the River Café house rules seriously, while also using the boundaries as a source of inspiration. Whether it’s winter beets and Vital Green Farms stracciatella with a glaze made from the previous season’s preserved blueberries, or cappelletti with mortadella made with local mangalitsa pork and bison pemmican, each of her dishes is undeniably River Café, yet unlike what her seven predecessors would have presented.

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CHEF KRISTEN LIVINGSTON PREPARES A DISH WITH BROXBURN TOMATOES, FAIRWINDS FARM CHEVRE AND RHUBARB VINAIGRETTE.

“Being playful, imaginative and having a sense of place are all important to my food, regardless of where I cook,” Livingston says. “But it melds well with what's happening at River Café.” Cumulatively, River Café has an allure that couldn’t be created anywhere else: it’s uniquely Calgarian but also unique within Calgary, accounting for its longevity and enduring popularity. Even Howell, who has spent more hours in the restaurant than anyone, says it still has a spellbinding effect on her: “Walking over here melts everything else away. It still has that magic for me.”

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Planet Youth helped transform Iceland’s approach to teen well-being. Now Calgary is testing whether the same ideas can work here. WORDS BY JACQUIE MOORE ILLUSTRATIONS BY TYLER LEMERMEYER

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n late ’80s Huntington Hills, the best place to hang out with my friends after class was the 7-Eleven parking lot adjacent to John G. Diefenbaker High School. A Slurpee- and nicotine-fuelled crucible for hormonal collisions, it seemed to be the only alternative to extracurricular sports and academic clubs for average achievers. Sometimes my friends and I would slouch over to my house nearby to play pool and sip a fruit drink, occasionally with vodka. Was this a healthy and meaningful path to youthful fulfillment? I don’t really know. Nobody was asking, giving us the impression that we weren’t, at least, on the wrong path. Certainly, now that I’m a mother of teens, I don’t regard loitering or screwdrivers as terrific after-school activities. On the other hand, sitting alone in your bedroom, on your phone and detached from the physical world and people you know, doesn’t seem like a stellar alternative. The world is, of course, a vastly different place than it was when I was coming up in northeast Calgary. Unprecedented political, economic and technological upheaval dovetails with evidence that teens across North America are experiencing poorer mental health than other age groups. Youth report higher ratings of anxiety and depression, overall physical distress and suicidal ideation. The University of Calgary’s O'Brien Institute for Public Health reports that 70 per cent of mental illness begins before the age of 18, and impacts across one's lifespan, reducing educational achievement, employment, income, marriage rates and life expectancy. Here in Alberta, youth are hospitalized for substance-related concerns at a higher rate than the national average. Calgary psychiatrist Dr. Paul Arnold is the Cuthbertson and Fischer Chair in Pediatric Mental Health at UCalgary’s Cumming School of Medicine, and formerly led UCalgary’s Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research & Education. Arnold says that many researchers describe the cause of these struggles, in part, as stemming from “a growing sense of disconnection.” Reduced stigma and greater awareness and recognition of psychological health might be part of the reason for the increased prevalence of youth mental health problems. But it’s not the whole story. “Anxiety and dislocation are macro-trends,”

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“YOUNG PEOPLE DON’T GROW UP IN ISOLATION. THEY’RE SHAPED EVERY DAY BY THE RELATIONSHIPS, SUPPORTS AND OPPORTUNITIES AROUND THEM.” Monique Blough

Arnold says. People of all ages, especially youth, he says, “are not feeling connected to one another or to their communities.” Arnold is currently serving as an advisor to United Way Calgary and Area as it rolls out a novel approach to get ahead of that disconnection. The program is called Planet Youth, and it’s part of a global initiative that uses data gathered directly from young people to improve the social, physical and emotional landscape of the city where they live.

riginally developed in Iceland in the 1990s to address rising alcohol and tobacco use, Planet Youth is a layered response to the forces that shape young people’s lives. Otherwise known as the Icelandic Prevention Model, it eschews traditional prevention methods focused on teaching about the risks of drinking and drugs, such as the “Just Say No” and “This is Your Brain on Drugs” campaigns of the ’80s and ’90s, which are widely regarded as ineffective. Instead, the Planet Youth model investigates and aims to strengthen the main domains of a young person’s life: family relationships, peer groups, school, leisure time and digital environment. By analyzing and disseminating data gained from surveys and interviews with youth, the initiative’s administrators and researchers guide discussions with parents, teachers, policymakers and community organizations to forge neighbourhood-specific change. While it’s not a simple initiative that can be distilled into the basic slogans, fried-egg symbolism and fear-based advertisements of the past, Iceland’s youth

substance-use rates are now among the lowest in Europe. Experts credit this to the Icelandic Prevention Model’s combination of youth-led, data-driven changes such as improved physical spaces, more heavily subsidized sports and arts programs, and, somewhat controversially, a 10 p.m. curfew for kids aged 13 to 16 (oh, Iceland!). Monique Blough, director of children and youth strategies at United Way, is not advocating for a curfew on Calgary’s youth. What worked in Iceland, and in the 21 other countries that have since adopted the model, might not work in Calgary — a city with four times Iceland’s population and far more diversity. In some communities, for instance, the challenges might be recreational — limited access to sports, arts or gathering spaces. In others, it might be social — fewer opportunities to build strong peer connections or mentorship relationships. What’s consistent, however, is the model’s aim to uncover the issues that teens say are most problematic in terms of keeping them from a connected, fun, well-rounded life. “The model doesn’t prescribe the fix,” says Blough, who recently attended a Planet Youth conference in Iceland “It creates the conditions to find it. “The core of the model seems simple, but it’s a powerful idea. Young people don’t grow up in isolation. They’re shaped every day by the relationships, supports and opportunities around them. To really understand what’s happening in their lives, we need to look at that full picture: their families, friendships, school experiences and the places where they spend their time.” Or, put another way, the treatment is building strong, positive relationships between young people and their families, peers, schools and local communities. Above all, the initiative requires courage and curiosity from participating youth willing to share intimate details: Do you feel safe in your community? How much physical exercise do you get? Do you feel pressure to smoke to fit in with your peers? Are you able to receive caring and warmth from your parents/caregivers? Since its 2022 adoption by United Way in Calgary, Planet Youth has gathered data from hundreds of young people surveyed at community events and high schools across four pilot neighbourhoods — Forest Lawn, Shawnessy, Saddle Ridge and Thorncliffe/Huntington Hills — chosen for their potential for community partnerships, and socio-economic and demo-

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45%

of female youth say their mental health is good or very good*

91%

of youth reported it was easy to receive parental warmth and care*

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ACCORDING TO PLANET YOUTH CALGARY CITY‑WIDE DATA (2024–2025)

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“WE NEED RECREATIONAL SPACES, MENTORSHIP PROGRAMS AND REALLY CLEAR, POSITIVE ALTERNATIVES TO SUBSTANCE USE AND STREET CULTURE.” Jujhar Singh

graphic stats that pointed to potential need. Though the initiative is still in its early stages, United Way hopes the kids’ responses and the subsequent evidence-based recommendations from experts like Arnold will give community organizations, parents, teachers and young people themselves a road map. That might mean more accessible evening programs, stronger school-community partnerships and initiatives that bring families into closer connection with one another. It could also mean rethinking how transportation affects access and how public spaces are used. For instance, in Shawnessy last year, youth leaders organized the first of a planned series of free movie nights (starting with Ghostbusters: Afterlife) at the community centre; in 2024, Youth Elders (a collective of young leaders working with Planet Youth to uplift the Indigenous community) participated in a Pipe Ceremony hosted by Planet Youth at Grey Eagle Casino; and, in Thorncliffe/Huntington Hills, an all-girls sports day took over the fields at John G. Diefenbaker High School. It’s a solid start to imagining Calgary — whose population includes more than 240,000 people between the ages of 15 and 29 — as a city run, in part, by and for youth.

wenty-year-old Jujhar Singh lives with his parents in northeast Calgary’s Taradale. “There isn’t much to do around here for people my age,” he says. With “nothing in walking distance” to do, Singh and his friends will drive 20 minutes to a mall just to hang out. “There just aren’t any good spaces tailored for young adults to gather.” Singh was keen to participate in the Planet Youth survey and is vocal in discussions with its

administrators; he wants to see major change in Calgary. He attends a monthly action committee meeting because he believes the troubles facing young Calgarians — such as last year’s 20 per cent spike in assaults involving youth — are the fault of a lack of safety supports and fun opportunities. Kids, Singh says, “fill the void” with drugs and alcohol when there’s not enough going on around them. “We need recreational spaces, mentorship programs and really clear, positive alternatives to substance use and street culture. “Young people should have equal access to resources across the city, and we need places to gather and feel secure, valued and connected.” Arnold would agree: “Planet Youth is about building environments where healthier choices become the easier choices, not through enforcement, but through design.” He says Calgary doesn’t need to completely reinvent its system of support, but does need a series of small, reinforcing changes. “Our city needs to be a place where youth feel safe, where they feel connected and know that if they’re struggling, there’s someone they can turn to.” It’s a vision that resists nostalgia. Today’s youth are not attempting to, nor do they even want to, recreate an idealized pre-internet past. After all, standing around a convenience store parking lot was hardly fertile ground for a dynamic, tight community — and it was never much fun, anyway. The goal isn’t to distance young people from fast-moving reality, but to enrich their lives with more activities and social opportunities that make sense in their community. “If you change the conditions around young people — their opportunities, their relationships, their sense of belonging,” says Blough, “you change the trajectory.”

This story was created with the support of the Avenue Community Story Development Fund. The Fund supports the creation of local reporting on issues such as intimate-partner violence, mental health and addiction, the housing crisis, and more. Thank you to our partners, including reader donors. To find out more, or contribute, visit AvenueCalgary.com/StoryFund.

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IN 2009, WE FLEW SHELLY. IN 2027, SHE’S HELPING US SOAR.

When STARS Very Important Patient Shelly Campbell suffered a complication following the birth of her son, STARS was called to provide the critical care and transport she needed.

Get your calendar today at starscalendar.ca

Today, her painting titled Golden Hour is featured on the cover of our 35th annual STARS Calendar. Proceeds from the sale of every calendar support our mission to provide critical care, to patients like Shelly. With your support, we can be there for the next patient who needs us most. AV E N U E C A L G A RY. C O M

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ate and Lucas Portwood’s ranch along the Elbow River in Springbank was a true testament to the funky 1970s: the home’s curved staircase and sunken living room were hints that the house hadn’t been updated since it was first built a half-century ago. Unfortunately, other signs of the times — outdated electrical work and good ol’ asbestos insulation — necessitated a renovation. The home was taken down to the studs, including demolishing the original concrete fireplace that separated the living room from the kitchen. It was a bittersweet decision for the homeowners, who liked the cozy woodburning vibes. “We wanted a living room that is a warm and welcoming place to gather and enjoy the incredible views,” Kate says. But designer Brooke Butler was quick to come up with a solution for the new main room. “The fireplace was relocated and redesigned as a sculptural focal point within the sunken space,” Butler explains. This involved some careful strategy when it came to the venting and structure, but the team used cues from the existing architecture to make the room look and feel comfortable. Collaborating with Shinobi Craft Construction and Calgary Interiors, Butler created a custom built-in bench that perfectly hugged the curve of the staircase. Now, there’s an easy, flowing connection between the sunken living room and the kitchen, and the space feels cohesive, bright and mellow while paying homage to its original bones. Retro-inspired millwork by Liber Custom Cabinetry also mimics the curve in the stairwell (both the hood fan and the

A new groove A mod-revival design preserves 1970s architecture and melds with its surroundings. B Y A LY S S A H I R O S E

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T H E B E N C H S E AT I N G This architectural, built-in lounge area follows the curve of the staircase. “It’s one of a kind and super functional for our family,” says Kate.

P H OTOS BY JOE L KL ASS EN

T H E WA L L S C O N C E S The homeowners and designer are all from the Georgian Bay area in Ontario, and these lights from Huey Lightshop are made nearby. The sconces’ curves are designed to mimic the waves of the bay.

kitchen island are free of sharp corners). Expanded windows and an additional set of sliding doors let in plenty of light. “We spend so much time outside; adding the second sliding doors into the living room was such a great way to create more flow in and out for us and for our dogs,” says Kate. For colour inspiration, the team didn’t need to look far. “Setting informed every material decision,” says Butler, pointing out the natural earthy palette of the winding Elbow River and sweeping mountain views. “Warm wood tones,

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mineral-inspired neutrals and layered textures reflect both the movement of the river and the strength of the mountains,” she adds. The living space acts as the home’s hub — the perfect place to settle in with a cup of coffee, play a board game or enjoy the family’s record collection. The functional and timeless mod revival renovation preserves the original architecture and ensures that the beautiful natural landscape can be enjoyed for the next 50 years. “The house truly feels like a tree house,” says Kate.

THE FIREPL ACE Butler chose rust-coloured finger tiles (narrow and rectangular) for the fireplace to introduce contrast within the restrained palette. “The vertical rhythm emphasizes height in the sunken room — it gives the space weight and presence,” she says. THE CEILING LIGHT To preserve the beautiful mountain view, Butler selected a low-profile light for the ceiling. “It maintains openness while adding sculptural softness,” says Butler.

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AFTER OPENING THEIR FIRST GALLERY IN CANMORE, BRIDGET RYAN AND JASON CARTER OPENED A SECOND GALLERY IN BANFF IN 2017.

ALPINE ARTS Canada’s mountain towns have grown into thriving arts hubs that showcase local and international talent and capture mountain stories.

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downtown Canmore space, there’s another artistic treasure tucked inside: a 51-seat microtheatre run by creative director Bridget Ryan, which has staged everything from an Anne of Green Gables-inspired comedy to a new musical created by Ryan that pays homage to iconic Canadian snack Hawkins Cheezies. Carter and Ryan, who are business and life

partners, own and run both this creative hub and an art gallery in Banff. The pair met in Edmonton while working together on Citytv’s Breakfast Television as a camera operator (Carter) and on-air host/producer (Ryan). Carter was pursuing his art at the same time, and the two worked on children’s books together. On a trip to Canmore in 2011, they were struck by

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pon entering Carter-Ryan Gallery and Live Theatre, tourists and locals alike are greeted by sandstone animal sculptures and walls of colourful paintings by Indigenous visual artist Jason Carter. While that’s reason enough to visit the

BY ALANA WILLERTON

the quality of art and photography galleries, and decided to open their own gallery. While it was the artistic community that originally attracted the pair to plant roots in Canmore, it’s not surprising that the mountain setting has come to influence Carter’s signature style. “When we first opened, I hadn’t really done that many landscape pieces, and it just really opened my eyes to the natural world, of where we are, the beauty of it,” Carter says. “Now, when I’m in the mountains and I’m looking at the landscape, I’m seeing these broad lines. I can see my paintings when I’m looking at the mountains now.” Spaces like Carter-Ryan Gallery and Live Theatre just scratch the surface when it comes to incredible art experiences in the Rocky Mountains. Community theatre companies like Canmore’s Pine Tree Players have graced the stage for nearly 50 years, while Symphony of the Kootenays just celebrated its golden

Tour. Banff Centre’s president and CEO, Chris Lorway, has met people with memories of the festival in their cities around the globe. “It’s one of the things that connects us universally to other parts of the world who share a similar culture,” says Lorway on why it’s important to share mountain stories and art beyond Banff. “Mountain culture [is] not dissimilar to the arts. When you start to break it down, you realize that it’s a small, I would say impassioned, community of people who love to share stories, and the same thing applies to the mountain culture piece. It’s a particular way of living and feeling connected to nature. The same way that people are connected to oceans, people are connected to mountains, and their stories are somewhat universal,” continues Lorway. The Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival & World Tour shares these stories on an international level. Ryan says the local arts landscape in Al-

“MOUNTAIN CULTURE [IS] NOT DISSIMILAR TO THE ARTS. WHEN YOU START TO BREAK IT DOWN, YOU REALIZE THAT IT’S A SMALL, I WOULD SAY IMPASSIONED, COMMUNITY OF PEOPLE WHO LOVE TO SHARE STORIES.”

H OW T O EXPERIENCE T H E A RT S I N T H E RO C KY M O U N TA I N S A look at some of the arts companies, organizations and festivals offering theatre, visual art, music and more in the mountains. ARTSPLACE This community arts hub is bursting with artistic experiences. Simply head inside to check out free exhibits, or make plans to watch a film in the black box theatre, take workshops covering everything from ceramics to adventure sketching, listen to live music performances, and more. 950 8 Ave., Canmore, 403-609-2623, artsplacecanmore.com

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— CHRIS LORWAY anniversary in Cranbrook. Popular events like the Canmore Folk Music Festival have drawn music fans to the mountains for decades, while mural festivals have brought new vibrancy to towns like Jasper and Nelson, B.C., over the last several years. One of the most established art spaces in the Rockies is the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, which is focused on the arts, leadership and mountain culture. Locals and visitors reap the rewards of the organization’s artistic draw, which has brought in artists and leaders from around the world to learn, perform and hone their crafts. That artistic exploration of local mountain culture is reflected back out into the world through major events like the Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival & World

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berta’s Bow Valley has “exploded” over the last 15 years as more people come to visit and live, and as arts organizations grow and expand their offerings. “Because it’s an international destination with international visitors, there’s an expectation that there’s an international level of arts, both visual and theatrical,” says Carter. “I think we conveniently slot right in there perfectly. We found ourselves in this situation where there was a sudden influx of people, and we happened to be here with an offering at the exact same time.” “We don’t know if this would work in any other place,” adds Ryan about the local community support the gallery and theatre receive. “[The Bow Valley] is a really special place in that respect.”

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THE 2026 BANFF CENTRE MOUNTAIN FILM AND BOOK SCREENINGS, ARTIST TALKS, FREE EVENTS AND MORE.

BANFF CENTRE FOR ARTS AND CREATIVITY Artists and leaders from around the world have been coming to the Banff Centre for more than 90 years to learn, explore and showcase their talent. The public can take in concerts and live performances, see art exhibitions in the Walter Phillips Gallery and catch major events like the Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival & World Tour, kicking off Oct. 31. 107 Tunnel Mountain Dr., Banff, 403-762-6100, banffcentre.ca THE LANGHAM Run by The Langham Cultural Society, this provincial heritage site, dating back to 1896, is full of culture and history. Visit the building’s 70-seat theatre, two art gallery spaces and The Langham Japanese Canadian Museum, which honours the stories of interned Japanese Canadians during the Second World War (some of whom were interned in The Langham building) through archival photographs, artifacts, a Japanese garden and more. 447 A Ave., Kaslo, B.C., thelangham.ca PINE TREE PLAYERS This community theatre company has been entertaining audiences with exciting theatre productions, one-act play festivals, the Canmore Summer Theatre Festival and more for nearly 50 years. Canmore Miners’ Union Hall, 738 7 St., Canmore, pinetreeplayers.com

UPLIFT! JASPER MURAL FESTIVAL Since launching in 2022, this festival has introduced more than 20 large-scale outdoor murals to the Jasper community. Take yourself on selfguided mural tours year-round and check out the festival each May for special events, workshops and new murals being freshly painted. Jasper, upliftfest.ca NELSON INTERNATIONAL MURAL FESTIVAL Nelson, B.C., is bursting with colourful murals by local and international artists thanks to the Nelson International Mural Festival, which celebrated its ninth anniversary in 2026. Visit during the annual August festival and check

THICK AS THIEVES EXHIBIT AT THE WHYTE.

out some of the 50-plus murals on a self-guided audio tour with the help of the Kootenay Lake Road Trip app. Nelson, B.C., ndac.ca/programs/ nelson-international-mural-festival THE WHYTE Founded by Peter and Catharine Robb Whyte in 1968, this museum explores mountain culture through a mix of permanent and rotating exhibits that showcase a range of art forms, historical items, archives and more. Check out the Thick as Thieves and When our eyes touch exhibitions until Nov. 8. You’ll also find the only locally owned bookstore in Banff here. 111 Bear St., Banff, 403-762-2291, whyte.org

EVERY AUGUST, NELSON GETS MORE COLOURFUL IN CELEBRATION OF ITS INTERNATIONAL MURAL FESTIVAL.

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HOME AWAY FROM HOME The Post Hotel & Spa in Lake Louise offers a cozy getaway. BY COLLEEN SETO

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ake Louise is one of those postcard-perfect places, or more aptly now, Insta-perfect. I try to make an annual pilgrimage to either canoe the crystalline turquoise lake in summer or skate on its frozen surface in winter. And yet, I had never stayed at the historic Post Hotel & Spa before. Deciding it was time to remedy that, I made my way to the village of Lake Louise last December to check in to what was originally the Lake Louise Ski Lodge. First opened in 1942, the hotel has been welcoming guests for nearly 85 years. Owned by Canadian Rocky Mountain Resorts since 2021, this log-built property holds a rustic charm, but don’t be fooled. It’s also refined, excelling in comfort, cuisine and service, which is why it’s a member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux group. In 2024, Post Hotel & Spa also received a One Key in the inaugural Michelin

Guide hotel ratings for North America, placing it among only 23 properties in Canada recognized for excellence. Upon arrival, I was greeted with a hot eucalyptus towel, which I consider peak indulgence. My family and I then traipsed across the brand-new geometric carpet to make our way to our suite, akin to a lush log cabin. (Last fall, the Post underwent a mini refresh where carpets and lighting were replaced.) Inside the room, my husband wasted no time starting a fire in the wood-burning fireplace, making it even cozier, and we settled right in. Eventually, we peeled ourselves off the comfy couches and headed down to the elegant dining room for the classic fine-dining experience the Post is renowned for. Here, dining is a thoughtful, intimate, slow-thingsdown experience where you spend as much time enjoying your food as you do enjoying the ambience of the space and the company of your dining companions.

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M O U N TA I N S

ACTIVITIES ABOUND

LOCATED ON THE BANKS OF THE PIPESTONE RIVER, THE POST HOTEL OFFERS PREMIUM ROOMS, EXECUTIVE SUITES, CABINS AND FAMILY SUITES.

P O S T H O T E L P H O T O B Y M AT T M A C S E M N I U K ; L A K E L O U I S E P H O T O B Y C O L L E E N S E T O

WINE AND DINE Notably, the Post’s wine cellar is one of the most impressive in the country and attracts wine lovers from around the globe. Meticulously curated, the cellar boasts a collection of more than 3,800 labels and 25,000 bottles — the wine list is literally as thick as a phone book. But don’t worry, a sommelier is always on hand to help you select the right pairing with your meal. Another way to sample the cellar’s offerings is through the Wine and Spirits dinner series, intimate events where guests are guided through an exquisite multi-course meal that is meticulously paired with distinguished wines and/or spirits (including one featuring Champagne Bollinger on Oct. 24). Or try the rare wines program, where guests can experience legendary wines by the glass. Taking place in December, the program is a limited opportunity to enjoy vintages typically accessible only through entire bottles in private collections. Choices on offer last year included a fourounce glass of Château Pétrus, Pomerol 1999 for $1,750, or a more frugal option of Château d’Yquem, Sauternes 1998 for $275. This year’s selections will likely include the Pétrus and other noteworthy options. In June, the hotel appointed chef Rupert Garcia as the new chef, taking over from executive chef Hans Sauter, who had led the Post’s cuisine offerings for more than 20 years. Chef Garcia comes to the Post with years of experience, having worked with the Vintage Group

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and the Fairmont Palliser. He will continue the Post’s culinary philosophy, which is rooted in seasonality, in its next chapter. If you’re in the mood for more casual fare, head over to the OutPost pub at the far end of the hotel for a selection of yummy pizzas, burgers and sandwiches. Be warned, the servings are generous. Even after eating so much of my bison brisket poutine that I felt I might explode, it looked like I had barely made a dent.

There’s no shortage of things to do at or near the Post. Lake Louise Ski Resort & Summer Gondola is a five-minute drive from the hotel, or you can while away the day at the on-site Temple Mountain Spa with an über-relaxing foot therapy treatment as I did. My son and I also hopped aboard the Post’s free shuttle to Lake Louise and spent an afternoon walking on the lakeshore trail. Back at the Post, after more delicious eats, we went to unwind at the saltwater pool. More accurately, my son went swimming while I dipped in the whirlpool and my husband enjoyed the steam room — something for everyone. All said, the Post Hotel offers a deluxe home away from home in the mountains, full of good eats, outdoor activities, rejuvenation and time to connect with loved ones. Avenue’s writers and editors are occasionally invited to partake in activities as a guest, including some of the experiences in this story. Neither complimentary hosting nor advertising are required for coverage in Avenue. Neither companies that advertise nor those that provide free experiences are promised editorial coverage, nor do they have the opportunity to review or approve stories before publication.

THE POST OFFERS A COMPLIMENTARY SHUTTLE TO BEAUTIFUL LAKE LOUISE YEAR-ROUND.

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Plus 15 Network Calgary’s Plus 15 walkway system continues to elevate the downtown commute. W O R D S B Y C H E L S E A C AVA N AG H P H O T O B Y JA R E D SYC H

t’s hard to miss the extensive network of walkways coursing through downtown Calgary. You just have to look up! The name Plus 15 describes the network: a highway of insulated walkways sitting 15 feet above street level. With 86 bridges spanning more than 18 km and connecting more than 100 buildings throughout downtown, the weather-protected network of passages has been easing workers’ commutes since 1970 — especially during the city’s harrowing winters. The system was championed by architect Harold Hanen as part of Calgary’s 1966 Downtown Master Plan. Construction on the first bridge started in 1969, connecting the Calgary Inn (now The Westin Calgary) and Calgary Place. The Plus 15 network has since evolved and expanded to meet the needs of our rapidly growing city, and is now one of the largest skywalk networks in North America. The navigation app Pedesting recently added the Plus 15s to its repertoire, and The City’s 2021 Plus 15 Wayfinding Project put in place measures to implement new maps and signage in the walkways to improve navigation. The Plus 15s made their big-screen debut in the 2000 indie film Waydowntown. The film follows a ragtag team of office workers who bet a month’s salary on who can avoid going outside the longest using the Plus 15 walkways to get around. The newest Plus 15 bridge is set to be built as part of the Cantiro 4th Ave. Tower project, due to open in late 2027 and supported by City funding.

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