Suburbs Satellites CALGARY & NEIGHBOURING COMMUNITIES& • APRIL 2012

Yee-haw! THE OFFICIAL START OF THE 100TH CALGARY STAMPEDE IS STILL MORE THAN TWO MONTHS AWAY — BUT FOR LONGVIEW SILVERSMITH SCOTT HARDY, THE PARTY’S ALREADY IN FULL SWING. SEE INSIDE FOR THE FULL STORY

ALSO INSIDE: Southwest Calgary homeowners celebrate quadrant’s diversity PLUS: Advantages of life in High River • Airdrie • Cochrane • Chestermere • Okotoks • and more . . .

WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 1 COUNTRY HILLS BLVD HWY 564 ROAD 264 TRAIL RLOW

BA MCKNIGHT BLVD LYALTATA

TRANS CANADA HWY 9 LGARY CA HWY

2 SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS in this issue Suburbs 2A 16 Airdrie Satellites CALGARY & NEIGHBOURING COMMUNITIES& • APRIL 2012 DIDSBURY Roller-derby girls shed 582 light on colourful sport.

CARSTAIRS Yee-haw! THE OFFICIAL START OF THE 100TH CALGARY STAMPEDE IS STILL MORE THAN TWO MONTHS AWAY — BUT FOR LONGVIEW SILVERSMITH SCOTT HARDY, THE PARTY’S ALREADY IN FULL SWING. SEE INSIDE FOR THE FULL STORY

2 ALSO INSIDE: Southwest Calgary homeowners celebrate quadrant’s diversity PLUS: Advantages of life in High River • Airdrie • Cochrane • Chestermere • Okotoks • and more . . . 23 Cochrane WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 1 Town’s culinary culture is AIRDRIE certain to captivate foodies. COCHRANE SUBURBS + SATELLITES A special publication 1 1A CHESTERMERE STRATHMORE of the Calgary Herald 1 Special Projects Manager: 560 Barb Livingstone, 403-235-7339 12 Southwest Calgary 22 LANGDON 22X 20 Chestermere [email protected] Diversity is name of the game Local student sings her way in this quadrant’s communities. 22 Project Co-ordinator: to famous Carnegie Hall. Jamie Zachary, 403-235-7552 7 OKOTOKS BLACK 2 [email protected] DIAMOND Contributors: Wil Andruschak, HIGH RIVER Estelle Besserer, Suzanne Beaubien, 4 Longview LONGVIEW CAYLEY Alex Frazer-Harrison, Shawn Hoult, Silversmith brings NANTON 10 Strathmore Rachel Naud, Jessica Patterson, the West’s artistic Local organization is giving small Carl Patzel, Joel Schlesinger, Paula Trotter history into focus business owners the proper tools. STAVELY and Gerald Vander Pyl with Stampede Cover photo: Estelle Besserer, centennial project. CLARESHOLM www.stellarimagery.ca

ADVERTISING FEATURE Golf-course community hits hole in one with homeowners magine living alongside a stunning golf In fact, Souza says he’d put the Muirfield course in the quiet countryside, yet still Lakes Golf Club up against any other Ibeing only a short drive from the city. course in the Calgary area. When you That is the lifestyle that awaits at The are standing on a tee box or green and Lakes of Muirfield, located east of Calgary looking around at the beautiful course and in the idyllic community of Lyalta, halfway surroundings, it compares favourably with between Chestermere and Strathmore. some of the best in the region, he says. The Lakes of Muirfield is a prestigious And then there is the community spirit community built around the Muirfield that comes from living in a quiet country Lakes Golf Club, which features a course setting. that’s both scenic and challenging, as well “In this day and age, it’s so easy to drive as a clubhouse that has become a central into your garage, close the door and not amenity for residents. see any of your neighbours,” says Souza. New to the community are a number The Lakes of Muirfield, however, is a of villas starting in the high $300,000s, a community where people greet each other price point that is unheard-of for a golf on the street and make lasting friendships course community. in the community. “With price points ranging from the A new show home parade is now open, high $300,000s for the villa units, it’s more with four select builders having new affordable than ever to live at Muirfield,” models available for viewing right across says developer Jimmy Souza, pointing to the quiet countryside. In fact, many the sun is always behind you rather than in from the golf course clubhouse. out there are also a number of available residents have told Souza that living in your eyes while driving to work in Calgary The Lakes of Muirfield features homes and bungalows backing on to the golf course the community lets them leave the hustle in the morning, and home in the evening villas from Ribero Homes, Douglas Homes, in the $400,000s and $500,000s. and bustle of the city behind at the end of — a small but welcome difference. Todays Homes and Compass Rose Homes. In addition to many retirees who love each work day — they feel like they are The golf course, which opened for the For more information about The Lakes the community’s golf-course lifestyle, retiring to the country. season at the end of March, continues to Of Muirfield, call 403-934-4778 ext 3, go Souza is also seeing a number of young They even appreciate the fact that, be a huge attraction for people buying in online to www.lakesofmuirfield.com or families with children looking to escape unlike some other outlying communities, The Lakes of Muirfield. e-mail [email protected].

WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 3 4 SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS stampede’s silver star Master silversmith Scott Hardy is keeping Alberta’s cowboy traditions alive on his ranch near Longview, and hopes his most recent project for the Stampede’s centennial will put the West’s artistic heritage in the limelight. Story by Joel Schlesinger. Photos by Estelle Besserer.

t’s not hard for Scott Hardy to find inspiration Head down, hunched over his work table, Hardy slow- Ever since, Hardy has lived and worked near the moun- for his work. The 54-year-old silversmith only ly chips away — literally — at the task at hand. It’s a tains — and owning a piece of the beauty was always in needs to look out one of the many large windows painstakingly detailed process, with one buckle equalling the back of his mind. of his studio, a 10-by-10-metre unassuming about 30 hours of work. He met his wife, Leslie, had twin boys and earned a structure on his family ranch near Longview. “Each buckle is an individual,” he says about the ster- living as a ranch-hand and welder. When a patch of land IThe Rocky Mountains, rolling prairie and foothills ling silver pieces that feature 10-karat gold detailing. southwest of Calgary came up for sale more than 20 make for an idyllic setting for the world-renowned mas- “Each letter is hand-cut. Each edge is hand-twisted. years ago, the couple jumped at the chance. ter of an increasingly endangered art form. Each golden, bucking horse in the centre is hand-carved “We were pretty blessed,” he says, adding he purchased Hardy is among Canada’s leading practitioners of and each buckle is hand-engraved.” the land with his brother David, and David’s wife Carol, traditional cowboy arts, and is one of the few Western- The long hours of late have left Hardy with little time who don’t live on the ranch. style silversmiths in the country. In fact, there are just a for his other job: tending to his herd of cattle. Living just five minutes’ drive from Longview, popula- handful in North America still hand-crafting elaborately Located a few kilometres off Highway 22 — the tion about 300, the Hardys have forged deep roots in the designed Western belt buckles and jewelry. Cowboy Trail — the Hardy Ranch is a quarter section community where everyone knows everybody else. His work has been exhibited at the Smithsonian of land that Hardy himself is quick to concede isn’t a “The people who live here want to live here. It’s not Institution in Washington, D.C, and he has been com- true working ranch. like they’re stuck here,” he says. “It’s real eclectic.” missioned to create pieces for some of country music’s “If you’ve got 30 cattle, you don’t really call yourself a The community is home to cowboys, farmhands, brightest stars. Yet perhaps the greatest feather in rancher,” he says. “You’re just playin’.” artists, construction workers, oil and gas workers and Hardy’s black Stetson thus far is a commission to design But the setting couldn’t be a better spot to inspire his even a North African family that runs the Longview and handcraft 100 commemorative belt buckles to cel- elaborately designed silver pieces that run from a few Steakhouse — considered one of the best places to get ebrate the Calgary Stampede’s centennial this July. hundred to tens of thousands of dollars. a steak anywhere. It’s a massive project for the lone silversmith, one that Earning a living at what he loves is a blessing, he Of course, much of the draw is its beautiful setting. has consumed much of his working life of late. Every says. But it’s not about money. Cowboy culture courses Hardy infuses his works with nature — prairie flowers morning at 8:00, Hardy walks across the yard from his through his veins. Born in Dundurn, Sask., Hardy grew and scrolls that elegantly twist and turn with incredible split-level home to his studio and works steadily until up riding horses, not bicycles. detail into three-dimensional, almost lifelike masterpieces. dinner. Then he heads back for an evening session until “We had the horses right in town with a little two-stall Yet his inspiration to become a silversmith didn’t come about 10 p.m. barn in the backyard,” he says. “As kids, we terrorized from an elaborate cowboy’s belt buckle he saw as a child. Despite the long hours, it’s by no means a tedious task everybody in the area on our Shetland ponies.” Instead, it was a tea set his great-grandmother brought for Hardy. It’s labour he truly loves. At 15, he found work taking care of the horses at with her from England. Hardy would often stand in “I’ve known about the Stampede my entire life and I’ve Banff National Park. front of her china cabinet, poring over every detail of the always admired it,” he says. “I remember being a little kid “I’d never been in the (Rockies) before, aside from a sterling silver set. in Saskatchewan watching it on TV, and I’d see all the drive-through when I was a small boy, but when I got Years later, he decided to pursue his career dream, taking horses — I was enamoured with it.” out there, I was intoxicated with the beauty.” a jewelry-making course at Mount Royal University. >>

WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 5 Hardy’s 1,200-square-foot cedar-sided home is a work of art in itself, designed to blend into its surroundings. Inside, Hardy’s works are notably absent, replaced instead by a mix of artwork from friends and artists he and his wife Leslie admire. Photos by Estelle Besserer

<< The 10-week class focused on general jewelry- making, and served as means to get his artisan feet wet. But most of what he learned of his craft was through in Oklahoma. For Hardy, who often works on a com- The cedar-sided home is one-of-a-kind, including trial and error while he continued to work as a ranch mission basis, it’s a chance for him to let his imagination unique angles that drove Hardy and the others who built hand. take the reins. it “crazy.” “I read everything you could read on the subject, and it “There are things that come into my mind that I want But the result was worth the trouble. The home features sprang up from that,” he says. to create that I may wait forever to have someone commis- dark oak hardwoods throughout (installed by Hardy him- He eventually met a master saddle-maker from south- sion me to do it, so I don’t wait,” he says. self), four bedrooms and two bathrooms. ern Alberta, Chuck Stormes — one of the premier cow- A wine boat he created for last year’s show — fashioned A few metres from the home, in the studio, Hardy har- boy craftsmen in the world. from a steer’s horn and adorned with hand engraved silver nesses all the inspiration of the gorgeous vistas he breathes “He convinced some very good Western silversmiths — had been on his mind for five years. in everyday. In the front is a small gallery, containing in the U.S. they should help me out,” Hardy says. “I just had to build it,” he says about the piece worth photographs of his work and of other artists who inspired “We became friends, and it became the type of thing more than $33,000. him. More photos hang on the wall of the workshop in where you could phone back and forth and talk about But spare time to tinker is a rarity. Hardy suffers from the back. projects and techniques, and that certainly helped me out no shortage of demand for his work, which has found its “You should have things in your life that connect over the years.” way to Japan, Europe and all over North America. you to past and present,” he says. His own family history Today, Hardy is a leading figure in the cowboy arts Perhaps surprisingly, one place in which his pieces do — he is a fifth-generation stockman — is as precious as realm. But by no means does he seek the limelight, yearn- not figure prominently is the family home. Instead, an the metals he chooses as his medium for artistic expres- ing for fame and fortune. His work speaks for itself. In eclectic mix of artwork from friends and artists he and sion. 2001, the Academy of Western Artists presented him Leslie admire infuses the home with meaning. His 27-year-old sons, Colter and Tyne, have inherited with the Will Rogers Award for Engraver of the Year. One of the couple’s most prized paintings is by a close that artist’s soul, too. Tyne works as an armed security He has also been invited to lecture several times at the friend, famed First Nations artist Dale Auger, who passed guard, but is studying to be a graphic artist. Colter is fol- National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in away a few years ago. lowing in his father’s footsteps. Oklahoma City. “Dale was a Cree from Northern Alberta and had a “He’s taking it in his own direction,” Hardy says. “I do In 2006, he was also invited to the Smithsonian PhD in education, but he was an incredible artist,” Hardy all Western stuff and he does more modern work.” Institution as one of two craftsmen from Alberta to rep- says. “He was very spiritual and he was hired to go into As he works on the Stampede belt buckles — each one resent Western heritage and craftsmanship. the prison to teach young natives.” slightly different from the next — Hardy can’t help but His work has been as much about bringing joy to The Hardys’ home is also a work of art itself. Designed wonder about how his work will be received long after he’s those who buy his works as it is about ensuring the by Calgary architect Jack Swinton, the 1,200-square-foot gone. Western traditions do not fade into bygone days. home — which also has a 400-square-foot loft and walk- “Hundred years from now, they won’t have a clue who It’s one reason he helped found the Traditional out basement — is intended to meld with the landscape. Scott Hardy was, but if that piece of silver or gold still Cowboy Arts Association, which brings together the “We live on sloping land, so our house slopes the same makes them feel good, then my life has been worth some- community of Western artists to share their works and way,” says Hardy. “It goes from the very top on the north thing,” he says. collaborate on projects. end of the house and slopes down to the south, so it “It’s not about me. It’s about that piece of work, and it Every October, they exhibit their works at the museum moves with the hill.” always has been.”

6 SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS HIGH RIVER

HIGH RIVER at a glance

Population: 12,920 (2011 census). Location: Junction of Highway 2 and Highway 23, about 37 kilometres south of Calgary. Online: highriver.ca

Town of High River parks and recreation manager Darren Goldthorpe and High River Minor Soccer president Don Baldwin are both Museum of the Highwood hopeful that an $8-million indoor fieldhouse could spark further interest in soccer and lacrosse year-round. Photo by Wil Andruschak museumofthehighwood.com

Guy Weadick Days High hopes for indoor fieldhouse hragsociety.ca George Lane Park Organizers say expansion is vital to town’s soccer and lacrosse leagues georgelanecampground.ca

by ALEX FRAZER-HARRISON need to be pushed, like soccer, and we want community is better than something 10 to 14 In the News: High River to get more activities that could be done in kilometres away, with economic impact on our has been named among new indoor fieldhouse in High River wintertime.” businesses and making it a drawing card for the best places to live by has the potential to turn activities like The fieldhouse, which is expected to open bringing people to our community to come MoneySense magazine. soccer and lacrosse into year-round in fall 2013, is budgeted at $8 million. Its and live here, because we have a facility in our The town ranked 71st sports in the growing town, say local need was identified in a 2007 study, says town backyard.” of 190 communities on Aorganizers. director of community services Doug Munn, Meanwhile, Mayor Emile Blokland says early the 2012 list. It was also The current Bob Snodgrass Recreation who adds that plans also call for dressing rooms, discussions are underway regarding building a named the sixth best place Complex is scheduled for an expansion that office space and, potentially, a walking track. separate aquatic-based leisure centre in the town. in Canada in terms of dis- will add a 28,000-square-foot fieldhouse with Meanwhile, plans are underway for a “Recreation is extremely important for cretionary income, seventh indoor playing fields to the facility, which fieldhouse on a 16.5-hectare site at Aldersyde, residents who want to pursue a healthy for its low jobless rate, already includes a 25-metre swimming pool, midway between High River and Okotoks. community and have a healthy lifestyle,” he says, 21st in terms of finding two ice arenas and a curling club. The project is currently spearheaded by the adding plans for the centre are at an early stage. employment and the 55th The indoor playing fields will give sports MD of Foothills and Town of Okotoks. The The Okotoks/Foothills fieldhouse, which best place to raise kids. like soccer and lacrosse a chance to be enjoyed Town of High River was involved in early could include as many as four indoor fields at through the winter, says Don Baldwin, president discussions but chose to focus on developing full buildout, is currently in its design phase, of High River Minor Soccer who, in 20 years, facilities inside the community. with construction also expected to begin this has seen his group’s membership swell from 80 “We took a look and the (cost) numbers spring, says Foothills Reeve Larry Spilak. to more than 600. came in higher than expected,” says Munn. “We were disappointed when (High River) “I believe children should have a lot of “When you look at the location, 10 to 14 decided to not go with us, but I respect their opportunities and shouldn’t be limited (in) any kilometres from High River, we decided we decision to keep it locally within the town particular activity and sport,” he says. could build one ourselves and be fully in control limits,” he says, adding the Aldersyde fieldhouse “We had a town meeting, and what came of the programming. is envisioned as part of a larger recreational out of it is there are certain activities that “We believe that putting facilities in our own campus.

WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 7 OKOTOKS

OKOTOKS at a glance

Population: 23,981 (2011, municipal census). Location: Junction of Highways 2A and 7, 23 kilometres south of Calgary. Online: okotoks.ca

Okotoks Pro Rodeo: okotoksprorodeo.com Barrel racer Deb Renger says plenty has changed in Okotoks since she put down roots there more than 20 years ago. Photo by Wil Andruschak Okotoks Minor Soccer: okotoksminorsoccer.com Okotoks Dawgs: Off to the races for rodeo champ dawgsbaseball.ca

In the News: In mid- Barrel racer Deb Renger happy to hang her hat in southwest Alberta town March, Okotoks town by SUZANNE BEAUBIEN “I like the speed part. I just can’t see myself in money toward financing her rodeo aspirations. council voted to postpone show jumping,” says Renger, who also likes the “I just wanted to go barrel racing,” says a vote to lift its popula- or barrel racer Deb Renger, Okotoks control: timed by an electronic clock, you either Renger. “So I bought a trailer...and when the tion cap and instead bid was the obvious choice when she started to annex enough land win or you don’t, she says — fair is fair. time seemed right I bought a horse and came competing in rodeos nearly 20 years ago. outside the town’s exist- While some barrel racers saddle up on horses down here (to Okotoks).” ing boundary to accom- With ample space to exercise her horses that have already been trained for competition, To say Okotoks has grown since Renger Fdaily and a location that allows the five-time Renger prides herself on building her prize- first moved here in 1991 would be an modate growth for the next 30 years. The vote Canadian champion to hit the road quickly in winning horses from the ground up. understatement. is expected to take place any direction, it’s no wonder the town is popular “I guess I grew up with a work ethic, and “It used to have just one stoplight — now it June 25. The current cap, among the province’s professional rodeo riders. it just feels really good to win on a horse that has plenty,” Renger says. put in place in 1998 by the “If you want to go pro rodeo, it’s a good you’ve trained yourself,” she says, recalling her But there are advantages, she adds, to the fact community’s Sustainable central location,” says Renger, a Calgary longtime winning horse, Buck. the small town has become a thriving bedroom Okotoks policy, is 30,000. Stampede champion who has clocked as many as Retired now, Buck turns 25 this year. Renger community of the big city to its north: 140,000 kilometres on the road in one year. credits his training with countless hours spent “Now I don’t have to go into Calgary.” All that time behind the wheel — and in the watching and asking questions. Now when she’s This year she’ll spend the winter in Texas saddle — has paid off for 43-year-old Renger: at home in Okotoks between rodeo seasons, she competing with her new horses, a six-year-old in addition to her five Canadian Barrel Racing offers barrel-racing clinics to young riders so mare named Nemo and seven-year-old Scooter. championships, she’s qualified for five National they can skip some of the harder lessons she had Time will tell whether her newest horses will Finals Rodeos (1995, 1999, 2004, 2007-08), and to learn on her own. follow in Buck’s fleet footsteps, but Renger is won a silver medal at the rodeo featured as part of Renger grew up riding horses in Hudson optimistic. Scooter has had injuries in the past the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City — among Hope, B.C., but narrowly escaped a career as a but he’s sound now, she says. her proudest accomplishments, says Renger. veterinarian’s assistant, instead putting her college “I know he’s got the talent.”

8 SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS ADVERTISING FEATURE Nothing is beyond reach for homeowners at Cimarron in Okotoks kotoks is well known for offer- From retail stores, food outlets and restau- remains a peaceful and quiet existence. The Tremont is located at 5 Cimarron ing big-city living with small-town rants to child care, day care and the Okotoks And if people do want to go to the “big Springs Ct. The grand opening for the new Ocharm. Yet nowhere is this feeling Recreation Centre, it’s all within footsteps of city,” it’s only a 10- to 15-minute drive to parade will be on May 26. The new phase more apparent than in Cimarron, one of the homes in this growing community. south Calgary. of Cimarron offers some of the largest lots in town’s most established new communities. A K-to-9 school that will serve Cimarron Some exciting news in Cimarron is the the community.. Cimarron provides easy access to all that residents is also under construction, with an recent unveiling of Trico Homes’ latest show Trico Homes currently has models available Okotoks has to offer, meaning residents expected fall 2012 opening date. home, now open. The 2,537-square-foot in Cimarron starting from $381,660 includ- really have no need to go into the city unless The best thing, says Hogan, is while all Tremont model has three bedrooms, two- ing lot, house and GST. they want to, says Trico Homes marketing these amenities are available only a short dis- and-a-half baths and a two-car front-attached For more information, call 403-995-0335, manager Clark Hogan. tance from Cimarron, life in the community garage. or visit www.tricocommunities.com.

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WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 9 STRATHMORE Do you own your own home? Why not? STRATHMORE Population: 12,139 (2010 municipal census). at a glance Location: 50 kilometres east of Calgary on the Trans-Canada Highway. Online: strathmore.ca IF YOU EARN $31,000/YEAR

Strathmore Farmers’ Market: strathmorefarmersmarket.ca Strathmore Heritage Days Stampede: strathmorerodeo.com YOU CAN AFFORD TO!! Strathmore Theatre Players: [email protected] Big for business Group paints bright future for local entrepreneurs

by shawn HOULT

o an outside observer, Strathmore might appear to be a quaint Prairie town, built on cattle and oil. And while that may be true Tto some extent, it doesn’t begin to describe the current changes going on within the municipality’s growing small businesses sector — changes that are helping to set it apart. Behind much of this change in recent years has been Community Futures Wild Rose. The federally funded program gives small business owners throughout the 15 shareholder communities in the area east of Calgary access to the information and resources that they need. Ryan and Dan Belanger of Ry-Dan Also offered throughout the province and Strathmore Glass. Photo courtesy the country, the 20-year-old program assists Ry-Dan Strathmore Glass individuals, small business and organizations through lending, community economic opportunity to expand the business and add a development services, and business and storefront became available, but it was difficult advisory training services. at the time as a self-employed business owner Brand new fabulous 3 bedroom townhomes with Essentially, Community Futures Wild Rose to get the loan he needed from the banks. So looks to give small business owners access to he went to Community Futures. your first year’s payment at $549/month* Live, the information and resources they need. “It made a huge difference — we’re still “When sometimes it seems large here,” he says. Get out of the rental market today! Your home-buying dollar gets you so much more at Laugh, corporations are growing at an ever-increasing Belanger says the loan not only helped the Wildwood Village – in the heart of Strathmore. speed, we’re here to help the small businesses business expand, but it put it on a path to Spec townhomes available for immediate possession, featuring and those entrepreneurs really try to gain being named 2010 Small Business of the Year hardwood laminate ﬂooring throughout living and Love in some footing or help link them into the by the Strathmore and District Chamber of dining areas, open kitchens with tile ﬂooring, 9 foot ceilings, and have 3 bedrooms with a master ensuite. information to make sure that they’re Commerce. Thousands of dollars’ worth included in upgrades! successful,” says Jennifer Brooks, Community “For small businesses like me, it’s like a Only a few select townhomes available at this price* Futures Wild Rose community economic hand up. It’s very important,” says Belanger. development officer. “For me and Ryan as a small business, Call Stan Johnson now Ry-Dan Strathmore Glass is a father-and- Community Futures understood what we son owned-and-operated home renovation needed and gave us the money we needed to 403.560.9364 www.PartnersHomes.ca company that was already up and running keep going. They basically set us on the path before its owners got in touch with of success.” Brought to you by Community Futures. For more information about Community

Ry-Dan owner Dan Belanger says an Futures, visit www.cfwildrose.ca. *For the first year. Subject to financing and mortgage approvals with minimum down payment O.A.C.. Some conditions apply – prices subject to change without notice. 10 SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS ADVERTISING FEATURE Expectations blooming at Wildflower Ranch he folks behind Wildflower Ranch in Strathmore are used to dealing Twith high expectations — not surprising, considering the community’s huge lots, variety of homes and seemingly endless open spaces. In fact, everything is big at Wildflower Ranch, not the least of which are the homeowners’ dreams. The master-planned community will eventually greet visitors with ranch-gate entrances, a village centre and more than six hectares of carefully preserved wet- lands and pathways, and offer a home suitable for every style and budget. In fact, at the heart of Wildflower Ranch is the idea that homeowners shouldn’t have to move out in order to move up. The community features a variety of single-family, cottage, semi-detached and attached homes, as well as apartments and seniors’ assisted living. Wildflower Ranch is also designed for homeowners who want a little extra space to roam, with a selection of country lot homes set on 50-foot-wide lots. Phase I homes are currently being offered at special pricing which includes lot. Aquilla Homes is offering the 1,677 square-foot, three-bedroom, two-and-a- half-bathroom Tamarack model for only $344,900. The Brockton model from Carpenter Homes provides 1,758 square feet of space, with three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms for $340,250. Paradyme Homes is also offering a 1,755- square-foot, three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom Astor model for only $350,500. Last but certainly not least, Ribero The Tamarack The Brockton The Astor The Ashton Homes is selling the Ashton model for just $370,475, a great price for a $344,900 (plus GST) $340,250 (plus GST) $350,500 (plus GST) $370,475 (plus GST) 1,919-square-foot home with three 1677 sq ft / 3 bdrm / 2.5 bath 1758 sq ft / 3 bdrm / 2.5 bath 1755 sq ft / 3 bdrm / 2.5 bath 1919 sq ft / 3 bdrm / 2.5 bath bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms. Wildrose Drive Wildflower Ranch is located 35

Road Wildflower kilometres east of the Calgary city limits. Ranch For more information on Wildflower Strathmore

Wildflower Petro-Canada Ranch, call 403-243-4338 or visit Westridge Rd www.wildflowerranch.ca. To Calgary TransCanada Hwy WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 11 south by SW Growing Calgary quadrant defined by its diversity — from rolling prairies to inner-city neighbourhoods Story by Alex Frazer-Harrison ou’ve heard about the guy who liked a product so much, he bought the company. Now meet a fellow who loved his southwest Calgary neighbourhood so much he sold half hisY street. Humberto Pineda moved to Calgary two years ago from Red Deer and found a 1,780-square-foot two- storey home in Evergreen Ridge, one of several growing communities in the city’s diverse southwest quadrant. “The neighbourhood is so beautiful — lots of families and lots of children,” says the real estate agent, who now has two children with wife Indira: Pablo, 3, and Lucia, three months. “And we’re close to Fish Creek Park and Highway 22X, so it’s easy on weekends to get out to Bragg Creek, or we go south on Macleod Trail to Okotoks.” Parks were also a selling feature for the Pinedas. “When we get bored of the park (across the street), we just have to walk two blocks away from our house and find another one,” he says. Pineda has been so impressed by his new community that he’s also spread the word. “In my same block, I sold eight houses,” he says. “I felt very comfortable here, and it was a great builder. “People said I was crazy to sell homes to my neighbours … we all live metres away from each other.” From Canada Olympic Park and Signal Hill to bustling inner-city neighbourhoods and rolling prairie suburbs like Evergreen Ridge, southwest Calgary

Humberto Pineda with wife Indira, son Pablo and daughter Lucia at their home in Evergreen Ridge. Photo by Wil Andruschak

12 SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS is arguably the most geographically diverse quadrant of An LRT line is expected to eventually land just east of the city, notes Ryan Hall, vice-president of marketing for Silverado, which already has quick access to Macleod Trail Baywest Homes, which is building houses in the Westland and Highway 22X. Estates section of West Springs, south of COP. The community offers a range of housing styles, includ- “The southwest has been a very progressive, fast-growing estates and what area developer United Communities ing quadrant that encompasses many of Calgary’s histori- dubs “Euro-style condos.” cal legacy communities, and it blends into the new areas,” he says. CURRIE BARRACKS “The growth (around Westland Estates alone) has been A rare case of a new inner-city neighbourhood, Currie outstanding. The appeal lies with the relative ease of get- Barracks is the latest community to be carved out of ting downtown.” the former CFB Calgary lands north of Mount Royal Hall adds construction of the LRT’s western leg — set University. to open in 2013 — will provide even greater access to The latest phase, built around streets honouring many of these new southwest Calgary communities. Calgary’s military heritage (street names include Mary Baywest also builds in Silverado, located alongside Dover Drive), promises a mix of single-family, urban Spruce Meadows’ world-class equestrian facility. estate and multi-family homes. Garrison Woods and Pictured top, Cougar Ridge benefits from being “The appeal there is the nice mix of affordable housing,” Marda Loop shopping areas are also nearby — though the a well-established community. Pictured above, Hall says. “It’s an amenity-driven community. Even though area is slated to get its own “High Street”-style commer- Silverado’s neighbour to the west is Spruce it’s in the far southwest, it has a bit of panache to it.” cial area, too. Meadows. Calgary Herald photos Inner-city southwest Calgary is also seeing new development. Canada Lands Co. has reinvented Currie Barracks, where military trucks have been replaced by stylish single- ASPEN WOODS Cougar Ridge is a short drive from a new Calgary and multi-family homes. Located on the city’s western edge in the East Co-op shopping centre and neighbouring commercial “A lot of people want to stay in the inner city, in a Springbank area, Aspen Woods is a suburban neighbour- development, offers a scenic commute via Bow Trail, is house they’ll have for the next 20 years,” says Amy Koehn, hood offering single- and multi-family homes close to the one of the closest neighbourhoods to Calaway Park, and is community manager for Birchwood Properties, which is Westside Recreation Centre and Aspen Landing. In 2013, home to the Calgary French & International School. building in the community. residents will also have quick access to downtown via the Here are a few further snapshots of new communities in West LRT extension, which will terminate at 69th Street. MONTREUX southwest Calgary. The region is also home to a number of prestigious schools including Webber Academy and Calgary Academy. Located southwest of 17th Avenue and 85th Street S.W., Montreux is billed as an alpine-themed community SILVERADO (as illustrated by its street names that reflect famous ski Located due east of Spruce Meadows and south of COUGAR RIDGE meccas such as St. Moritz), built around nearly 13 hect- Highway 22X, Silverado is an equestrian-themed neigh- Another neighbourhood expected to benefit from the LRT’s ares of green space and a ravine. bourhood that boasts some 36 hectares of green space — west expansion, Cougar Ridge is located north of Old Banff The community is a short drive from the LRT’s west not counting an extra 24 hectares of environmental reserve Coach Road and due south of Canada Olympic Park. It is a terminus and Westside Recreation Centre, and kitty-cor- — a large wet pond, and quick access to the Shawnessy well-established community with a number of areas still under ner to the Aspen Landing shopping centre. Head west on commercial district. development, such as a villa project called The Landings. 17th Avenue and the mountains await.

WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 13 SOUTHWEST CALGARY Southwest Calgary attractions, amenities From sports sites to street shopping, this Calgary quadrant offers plenty for its residents by Alex-Frazer-Harrison 17TH AVENUE S.W. THE MILITARY MUSEUMS So it’s been a few years since 17th Avenue was last You don’t need to be a veteran to appreciate the exhibits outhwest Calgary is home to many of the city’s major “party central” during a Flames Stanley Cup run, but that on display showcasing the accomplishments of Canada’s attractions, from a world-class sports training facility doesn’t make this famous stretch of road any less attractive armed forces over the last century, located off Crowchild Sto a world-class show-jumping centre. as a place to visit for a good meal, a fun night out with Trail and considered the largest in Western Canada. friends, or an eclectic shopping spree for anything from CANADA OLYMPIC PARK Egyptian treasures to spyware. EDWORTHY PARK This legacy of the 1988 Winter Olympics continues Once earmarked for a freeway, this hidden valley off to reinvent itself. Featuring a popular urban ski hill and HERITAGE PARK/GLENMORE RESERVOIR Spruce Drive is one of southwest Calgary’s most under- summer mountain-bike park, it is now home to Canada’s Heritage Park’s authentic re-creation of a pioneer village rated treasures. Book a picnic area for the family, or enjoy Sports Hall of Fame, the Naturbahn Teahouse, Zipline at boasts a captivating view of Glenmore Reservoir, a spec- strolling the pathways and the pedestrian bridge over to the Park and a newly built athletic and ice complex. tacular man-made urban lake, with both high on tourists’ the north shore of the Bow. “must-see” lists. SPRUCE MEADOWS Be sure to check out the shops outside Heritage Park’s CHINOOK CENTRE One of the world’s top equestrian venues, Spruce Meadows main gate, which are open year-round. Ands if you want to The largest shopping centre within the city, Chinook is more than just horses. It also hosts a number of special see the reservoir from new perspectives, drive out to North Centre, at Glenmore Trail and Macleod Trail S.W., has events year-round, such as the International Christmas Market or South Glenmore parks, or strap on a lifejacket and get been a shopping mecca since the early 1960s, and recently and the Calgary Horticultural Society’s annual Garden Show. thee to a canoe. added a high-fashion expansion.

ADVERTISING FEATURE Southwest community opens the door to extraordinary living esigned for homeowners looking residents with incredible views of the for something extraordinary is nearby Rocky Mountains. In fact, the DTimberline Estates, an exclusive amazing views are just another reminder of southwest Calgary community by how close the community is to recreation WestCreek Developments. meccas such as Canmore and Kananaskis Located off Glenmore Trail, en route to Country, with easy access via adjacent 85th the mountains, Timberline Estates consists Street and nearby Highway 8. of 65 lots averaging about 10,000 square Access to points within the city is also feet apiece, with front lawns ranging from easy accessible thanks to Glenmore Trail 50 to 70 feet wide. and 17th Avenue, as well as nearby It’s the kind of space that’s rare within Stoney Trail and the C-Train. the city limits, and practically unheard-of Other nearby amenities include a mix only 15 minutes from the downtown core. of shopping and dining located at both Timberline Estates also features three of Aspen Landing and Westhills Shopping Calgary’s premier builders in Albi Homes, Centre. Crystal Creek Homes and Homes By Avi. For recreation, Timberline Estates is WestCreek Developments manager just minutes from several golf courses, Patrick Briscoe says the builder group including the semi-private Elbow Springs has been a tremendous asset for the Golf Club, as well as being just down community, both in attracting buyers and first six months. Home and lot prices begin their homes, the community’s unique the road from the Westside Recreation in giving homeowners what they want. in the $900,000s. location also offers much for outdoor Centre. “They have been doing a great job “They’re fairly large homes. Compared aficionados. Timberline Estates also sits close to on the product that they’re putting into to anything in the area with the size of The community itself features plenty several of the city’s elite private schools, Timberline Estates, and the show homes lots that you’re getting and your home of green space as well as a children’s including Webber Academy, Calgary are pretty spectacular. It’s definitely a options, it is the best deal on the west playground area, while walking paths Waldorf School and Calgary French and premium community,” he says. side,” says Briscoe. connect residents to the nearby ravine and International School. Briscoe notes one-third of the While Timberline Estates residents will pristine environmental reserve. For more information, visit community’s lots have already sold in the have a lot of reasons to stay in and enjoy Timberline Estates also provides its www.timberlineestates.com.

14 SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS Timberline Estates is the destination of choice for those seeking a luxurious lifetstyle. Located on the west side of the community of Springbank Hill, near the intersection of 34th Avenue and 85th Street, in Calgary’s southwest.

This twenty-two acre To Your New Backyard development is surrounded by a ravine to the east and by acreages to the north, south TIMBERLINE and west. Our 66 oversized lots begin at E S TATE S 10,000 square feet. Bungalows start at 1800 square feet, Two Storeys 2800 square feet. All homes are, of course, finished with the utmost care and Welcome attention to every detail. You can own your own exclusive space in Timberline Estates starting from the $900’s.

We are proud to offer our nature inspired architecture by three award winning builders:

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LOWER Please visit our sales centre SPRINGBANK GLENMORE TRAIL RD 200 Fortress Bay SW SW or visit our website www.timberlineestates.ca 403-262-3242 403-536-7260 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 15 AIRDRIE Down & Derby

AIRDRIE Airdrie roller-derby girls at a glance are not your typical minivan moms

by Carl Patzel porting multiple tattoos barely covered by Population: 43,155 their purple elbow pads, Sarah Hissett and (2011, municipal census). Sarah Deveau are not your typical active Location: 32 kilometres S moms. north of downtown Their passion comes in the form of a tightly Calgary on the Queen laced pair of roller skates and a few eagerly Elizabeth 2 Highway. thrown elbows, along with a touch of athletic Online: airdrie.com violence and a rink filled with good fun. Hissett and Deveau are roller-derby girls, and Airdrie Edge: the dynamic duo are looking to bring the sport airdrieedge.com to fans in Airdrie and Rocky View County. Hissett, who previously caused havoc in the Genesis Place: Calgary Roller Derby Association under her airdrie.ca/genesis_place derby handle, “Hissett-Fit,” compares the rolling sport to an alternative lifestyle. Ironhorse Park: “Roller derby is a totally different story. I’m ironhorsepark.net heavily tattooed and it’s a sport that accepts that. The women come in all shapes and sizes,” says In the News: The City of Hissett, who took a break from skating last year to Airdrie has finalized the have a baby. “I tell the new girls it quickly becomes Sarah Hissett, aka ‘Hissett-Fit,’ and Sarah Deveau, aka ‘Socra-Tease,’ are hoping to bring the annexation of 5,115 a sisterhood with derby. You have one great, huge thrills of roller-derby to Airdrie and the rest of Rocky View County. Photo by Carl Patzel. hectares of land to the extended family. A roller girl is always willing to west, north and east help another girl out, regardless of what they need.” Airdrie, but she also pulled her sister-in-law sport is not the roller derby of the 1970s where of the city limits. The The former tattoo parlour employee certainly over-the-top good-and-evil characters battled out agreement with Rocky Sarah Deveau into the sport several years ago. isn’t your typical minivan mom, as evidenced by View County is expected Deveau, whose roller-derby persona includes wrestler-type scenarios on wheels. to provide Airdrie with a her SUV’s bumper sticker: “Roller Derby saved the moniker “Socra-Tease,” was attracted to the Though there is no fighting, an infraction that 50-year land supply my soul.” pageantry of the sport and its colourful skates and will get you kicked out of the league, there is that will see future Having represented Canada at the first interna- helmets, short skirts and ripped fishnet stockings. plenty of real contact. development of services, tional roller-derby bout in Great Britain, Hissett Yet the physical aspects of the game and the “People ask me if it’s fake. It’s hard enough to amenities and housing, has plenty of experience, and doesn’t take the camaraderie are what hooked the mother of three. do it real, let alone add a level of fake on top,” says the city. sport lightly. Players new to roller derby have to “It’s a real sisterhood and a community. says Deveau. take a written test, know the rules of the game That’s why it fits with Airdrie and the whole “It’s full contact, but you’re wearing padding. — displayed in a 45-page booklet — and pass small-town feel,” says the Airdrie resident, who It’s smart contact. You’re not looking to kill minimum skill testing for safety reasons. has authored several books as the Money Smart someone, just knock her off the track.” “Roller derby isn’t a sport that anyone can just Mom. In the Rocky View Roller Derby Association, throw some skates on and play. We’re padded “Derby girls are sisters to each other in the the girls require only enthusiasm, perseverance, up, but to avoid injury we teach how to truest sense of the word. You’re going to be a bit of patience and a sense of humour from fall small and how to take a hit and give a hit,” playing and hitting people that you are going to newcomers. says the Irricana resident. go to dinner with that night, or maybe will baby- Training in the Pete Knight Arena in Not only did Hissett attract more than sit your kids the next night,” she says. Crossfield, they expect to begin playing games 50 ladies to a March information meeting in Deveau stresses the modern iteration of the in 2013.

16 SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS ADVERTISING FEATURE Brownstones in Sage Meadows colours neighbours green with envy he timeless elegance of traditional where 60 per cent of it will be preserved as within the heart of the community. Most units are two-storey, three-bed- brownstone architecture meets the green space, including an area along scenic The Brownstones all feature front and room designs, but there is also an optional Tdesired convenience of an upscale West Nose Creek with a pathway system back yards, and rear-drive garages, with floor plan with two master bedrooms, each northwest community minutes from “It’s a nice lifestyle to be around that most being two-car. with an ensuite. downtown in the Brownstones in Sage much environment,” says Bruce Taylor Townhome units range in size from Prices start from $349,950, which Meadows. with the Genesis Builders Group. 1,182 to 1,375 square feet. A finished includes lot, house and GST. The first six Located just footsteps from Stoney Trail, Development in Sage Meadows is being bedroom and bathroom in the basement buyers will receive an added bonus of up this exclusive development of 46 execu- carefully limited to only 160 single-family is a standard feature in The Brownstones, to $10,000 in upgrades. tive-style townhome units has the added homes and the 46 units of the Brownstones, adding more than 300 square feet to most Visit www.thebrownstones.ca or call bonus of being set within a community which themselves have a coveted location floor plans. 403-455-2280. Where executive style living is what you expected executive style living to be.

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It’s your time. The Brownstones is now under construction. Be one of the first six qualified buyers and receive $10,000 in upgrades* towards your executive style Brownstones townhome in Calgary’s charming northwest community of Sage Meadows. The limited 46 unit, four block complex flanks Sage Meadows Terrace - the gateway to a community boasting over 60 percent green space.

Experience the warmth of stonetile and stucco facades reminiscent of the historic brownstone architecture of late 1800’s New York. Enter into an exquisitely appointed interior with the most modern features.

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*The first six qualified buyers receive $10,000 towards the Brownstones in upgrades. Offer applies to upgrades only. No cash value. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 17 AIRDRIE

Tricia Andres McDonald operates Sol Swimwear. Photo by Carl Patzel Home sweet home Home-based businesses booming in Airdrie

by Carl Patzel business community that is flourishing in the growing city north of Calgary. iving into the deep end of the Of the 20 to 30 new businesses opening home-business sector turned out in Airdrie each week, around two-thirds Dto be a real splash for Airdrie’s are starting up in homes, says Leona Esau, Tricia Andres McDonald. economic development officer for the city. Dipping her toes into the entrepreneurial In 2011, more than 990 residents waters five years ago, McDonald began her applied to licence businesses based in their Sol Swimwear venture out of the comfort- residential dwellings, says Esau. able surroundings of her home — and “Airdrie is a really young community, she things have gone swimmingly ever since. says. “We have a lot of people in the 30-34 “I had know idea what I was doing at first, age group who are having kids, and you but in Airdrie I found that it was very easy to have one of the parents looking at what they start. You get a business licence and get some can do out of their homes to better establish ideas and go from there,” McDonald says of that whole life/work balance.” her custom-fit swim-line enterprise. Many of the new endeavours have Utilizing a home boutique, McDonald developed from the construction and pro- focuses on producing a relaxed, less self-con- fessional and technical service industries. scious atmosphere for women looking Close to 400 of the businesses fell into to get into a summer holiday bathing suit. this category, with engineers, architects and “When I started out, I wasn’t really sure general business consultants among them. where the concept was going. I just knew To keep up with the growing demand, there had to be a better way of trying on the city recently initiated community-wide swimwear,” says the former archaeologist. business surveys it will use to highlight “I realized it’s the average women trends and opportunities. The city is also between the age of 30 and 50 who have encouraging businesses to use its Airdrie the hardest time finding swimwear that fits Now program and several other initiatives. properly, and a place where they are not “There’s a great need for training opportu- feeling self-conscious.” nities at a really good value, to help some of McDonald joins a surging home-based these small business owners out,” says Esau.

18 SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS ADVERTISING FEATURE Hillcrest in Airdrie offers homeowners a breath of fresh air ith so many communities of which will keep the popcorn and seeming to blend together, it’s refreshments flowing, says Trico area Wa breath of fresh air to discover sales manager Cory Baiton. Hillcrest in Airdrie, a community with The home also has lots of windows distinctive architecture and a relaxed, to allow natural light to burst through, small-town atmosphere. showing off the polished finishings, Situated on the scenic hillside in the including a superb kitchen with a city’s southwest, Hillside is an inviting giant island that is ideal for baking or community built around natural green entertaining. spaces with a collection of parks and For homebuyers looking for more pathways. semi-estate living, Trico is also building in Residents can appreciate their quiet nearby Cooper’s Crossing in Airdrie. surroundings and Airdrie amenities such The 130-hectare community is similarly as schools and recreational facilities, yet located on a gentle hillside in southwest can still enjoy the conveniences of Calgary Airdrie. Trico homes in the community only minutes away, or nearby shopping range in size from 2,000 to 2,700 square centres such as CrossIron Mills. feet, and are priced from $470,000. And Hillcrest welcomes visitors with a gallant remarkably, the homes do not back onto stone tower and gatehouse entrance. one another. Within the community itself, homes Within Cooper’s Crossing itself are open feature classic architecture styles that make spaces, scenic ponds, active playgrounds use of a rich colour palette and elements Most floor plans feature three bedrooms display in Hillcrest, including the Berkeley and two future school sites, all linked by a of stone and woodwork. and two or two-and-a-half baths, with model, located at 22 Hillcrest St. S.W. network of lush park trails. Trico Homes is offering five different two-car, front-drive garages. A popular Spread out over a functional and usable For more information on Hillcrest or models of homes in Hillcrest, ranging from option is a fourth bedroom, perfect for 1,984 square feet, the model features a Cooper’s Crossing, call the Hillcrest about 1,780 to more than 2,400 square larger families. great bonus room with optional vaulted show home at 403-980-8510, or visit feet, with prices starting from $370,000 Two Trico show homes are currently on ceilings and built-in wet bar, the latter www.tricocommunities.com.

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WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 19 CHESTERMERE Local singer takes centre stage Dallas Hayes-Sparks’s recent travels take her to Carnegie Hall

by GERALD VANDER PYL

t’s a long way from Chestermere to New York City, but local singer Dallas Hayes- CHESTERMERE Sparks is bridging the gap between life at a glance in her quiet home community and the Ibustling world of an aspiring vocalist. Hayes-Sparks, a Grade 11 student at Heritage Christian Academy and a member of the school’s choir and jazz group, performed at famed Carnegie Hall in New York City earlier this year, just another stop in her emerging Population: 14,682 singing career. (2011, municipal census). The performance with the Honors Choir Location: Trans-Canada included singers from around the world as part Highway, about 18 of the 2012 American High School Honors kilometres east of Performance Series. downtown Calgary. Hayes-Sparks says she wasn’t nervous until Online: chestermere.ca actually getting on the stage in front of the audience, “and it finally hit me that this is Chestermere Rec Centre real. I was shaking for a little bit, but after chestermerecrca.com the second song I stopped and settled into it and (realized) that this is what I should be Chestermere Public Library chestermerepubliclibrary.com doing.” The event at Carnegie Hall was just the latest In the News: A much- trip the 17-year-old has taken from Chestermere anticipated 22,000-square- for her singing career. She has travelled with the foot health centre in school choir to perform in Olds, Edmonton, Saskatoon and even Chicago, which is where Music has always been in Dallas Hayes-Sparks’s blood, says mother Paula-Rae. Recently, Chestermere took another the Chestermere singer’s travels took her to New York City. Photo by Paula Trotter. step closer to reality with she caught the attention of organizers selecting its official groundbreaking students for the Honors Choir. ceremony at the end of Hayes-Sparks’s proud mom Paula-Rae says competition shows she loves to watch. I stopped and settled into March. The Chestermere after the Chicago performance, a director asked, She says what appeals to her about the shows Health Care Centre at 288 “Who hit the high A?” That led to Dallas being in not always the performances, but seeing it and (realized) that this is Kinniburgh Blvd. will cen- invited to New York City. people have a chance to chase their dreams, what I should be doing. tralize home care, public Paula-Rae says she can’t really remember a much like she is doing. health and mental health time when her daughter didn’t sing. From a While Hayes-Sparks has enjoyed spending services under one roof. young age, she was always whistling and singing, time on the road performing, she’s always glad very best decisions of our lives,” says Paula-Rae. Alberta Health Services she says. Paula-Rae recalls her daughter once to come home to Chestermere. “It’s so peaceful here, and there is a real sense will be leasing just under telling her, ‘Mom, if I don’t feel happy, I sing, Having grown up in Calgary before moving of community that you don’t get growing up in half of the space. and it makes me feel better.’” with her family to the small town east of the Calgary.” By Grade 7 it was not just Hayes-Sparks’s city seven years ago, Hayes-Sparks says she never Hayes-Sparks says after high school, she parents and three siblings who knew of her had the chance in the big city to make friends hopes to study education and singing at a singing skills. After a choir performance, well- like she has in Chestermere. post-secondary institution such as the Eastman known singing teacher Shelley Fullerton came Paula-Rae says a big reason they moved to the School of Music in Rochester, N.Y. forward and said she wanted to work with town was to build a home big enough for their Still, she thinks Chestermere will always be Dallas. family, rather than have some of the kids sharing the kind of place she wants to call home. Fullerton has taught Hayes-Sparks ever rooms, as they had to do in their Calgary home. “I loved New York a lot, but I think I’d have since, and also gets to hear plenty of the While she was a bit worried at first about to live somewhere small, maybe close to a big teen’s thoughts and opinions the TV singing uprooting the family, “it was one of the city, like I am now,” she says.

20 SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS ADVERTISING FEATURE EvansRidge hits its stride with new show home openings he popular northwest community “The response has been phenomenal. Credit for the community’s popularity and get out and enjoy life. Pathways of EvansRidge is taking it to the next We’re very happy with the community, and also goes to it allowing families to grow criss-cross through green spaces, a future Tlevel this spring with the grand open- with the response from the public,” she says. without having to move away. Homes in- school site, eight different ponds and even ing of 15 new show homes. Heilman credits much of the commu- clude ridge walkouts, laned homes, town- a buffalo jump. The first 11 show homes are open now, nity’s early success to the quality of its homes, rear-garage homes, front-garage And because of its close proximity to with the final three set to open in early June. builders. homes and zero-lot-line homes. Stoney Trail, EvansRidge provides easy ac- The new additions come after a success- “They have really been able to hit their Pricing starts in the $280,000s for town- cessibility to virtually anywhere in Calgary. ful first year of sales, says Dundee Devel- stride in the community in terms of the homes and rear-garage homes, and under For more information, including show opments marketing co-ordinator Cheryl various product offerings, and that shows $350,000 for front-garage homes. home locations and hours, visit www. Heilman. in the sales,” she says. EvansRidge also encourages residents lifeontheridge.ca.

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WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 21 CANMORE

CANMORE at a glance

Population: 12,317 (2011 municipal census). Location: Trans-Canada Canmore is proving to be within reach for many Calgary commuters looking for an escape from the big-city grind. Calgary Herald photo Highway, about 106 kilometres west of Calgary. Online: canmore.ca Two ways about it Tourism Canmore Kananaskis tourismcanmore.com Homeowners trade off longer commute for piece of personal paradise

Canmore Nordic Centre by RACHEL NAUD planning and development for the Town of Canmore lags about six to eight months behind. canmorenordic.com Canmore. Prices are stable and sales are picking up, but our en years ago, a job transfer was what “Plus, there may be some element of avoiding prices are still down. Canmore BRZ brought Glenn Isaac to Canmore. some of the negative aspects of metropolitan life, “Three or four years ago, people wrote off downtowncanmore.com A decade later, it’s the area’s quiet, such as congestion, sprawl and crime. Certainly, Canmore as place they couldn’t afford, but now safe and beautiful nature that keeps it’s easier to move around Canmore than it is prices are down 20 to 25 per cent so we see a lot In the News: Construction Thim there. around Calgary.” of people coming back to town because they can continues on the new These days, the environmental specialist Located just over 100 kilometres west of afford it again.” Canmore Multiplex, a commutes to Calgary for work, and says the Calgary, Canmore is home to 12,317 permanent The selection in the market is also favourable $39-million 77,000-square- hour-and-five-minute one-way daily drive is and 5,982 non-permanent/second home owners. for buyers. This past year, the Canmore market foot facility that will house a small price to pay to live in the beautiful an aquatics centre, It’s also home to more than 71 kilometres experienced a 3.5 per cent increase in listing mountain town. climbing centre, library of multi-use trails within the town’s limits, volumes with an 11.75 per cent drop in sales. and multi-purpose “Canmore is a great place to live outside of the World Class Canmore Nordic Centre, five “We have everything between studio condos to community spaces. the hustle of everyday life in the city,” says major ski resorts, as well as an array of hiking, multi-million dollar homes,” says Sparks. Located at 700 Railway Isaac. “You can leave behind the stress of scrambling, climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, “People are coming here for the lifestyle, not Ave., the facility is expect- everyday life at 5 p.m.” canoeing, rafting opportunities. to mow lawn. I know one family with two kids ed to open this year. Isaac’s not alone. According to the city’s “People would rather commute to work who recently sold their home in Calgary and 2011 census, more than 510 people live in as opposed to commute to play,” says Dan moved into a townhouse in Canmore because Canmore but work in Calgary — up from 470 Sparks, realtor for Century 21 Nordic Realty in their reason for living here is for biking and in 2009 and 450 in 2008. Canmore. “Sure, Monday to Friday they’ll spend skiing. They don’t want yard work. This way, “It has been seen in a number of reports an extra 45 minutes on either end commuting. they can immediately play after work.” and surveys, both of permanent residents Yet at same time, during their evenings and Isaac agrees. and non-permanent residents. The major weekends they are where they want to be.” “We love the people and the beauty of the reasons for coming to the community are In addition to its recreational activities and surrounding area,” he says. “If you like the such things as the natural environment, the small-town charm, Canmore is also attracting outdoors, its hard to find a place like this local recreation, particularly trails, proximity Calgarians for its housing market. anywhere else in Canada. We don’t know how to the National Park and the small-town “The housing market is lagging behind long we plan to stay at this time. But we enjoy atmosphere,” says Gary Buxton, manager of Calgary,” says Sparks. “As Calgary recovers, everyday that we get to spend here.”

22 SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS COCHRANE

COCHRANE at a glance

Population: 17,580 (2011 Census). Location: Junction of highways 1A and 22, 18 kilometres northwest of Calgary. Online: cochrane.ca

Cochrane RancheHouse: cochraneranchhouse.ca

Bernie’s Bavarian Bakery owner Bernhard Fortner says the secret to his success is in the ingredients. Photo by Carl Patzel Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre: slssportscentre.com

Glenbow Ranch Culinary charm certain to captivate Provincial Park: tpr.alberta.ca/parks/glenbow From champagne truffle cookies to chicken portofino, town’s eateries hit the spot In the News: Rocky View Schools has identified in its by Jessica Patterson Bavaria in Germany. “It’s not a secret. It’s the delights would be incomplete without mentioning ingredients. They taste the difference quality Twisted Basil Bistro, (122 Third Ave. W.), which capital plan for 2013-16 that the top priority is develop- here’s more than ice cream in Cochrane. makes.” specializes in fresh food on the run. ing a new K-8 facility in From steaks to seafood, Italian to Across the railroad tracks is Portofino Italian You can get fast food, or you can get healthy Cochrane. The school board Indian and tasty bites in between, Ristorante (205 First St. E.), owned by Pierre food, “but the two don’t easily go hand in says Cochrane schools Cochrane’s wide range of food Langlois. For the seven years Langlois has hand,” says owner Leslie Swann. will face an “accommoda- Testablishments is sure to satisfy. owned and operated Cochrane’s only Italian Swann says she can’t seem to make enough of tion crisis” by early 2015 Tempt your sweet tooth with chocolate-filled restaurant, where nothing comes out of a jar. the famous and fabulous dragonboat salad for its if something isn’t done. butter cookies, applecake with marzipan or Everything on the menu is made to order while adoring crowds. Airdrie will face that crisis champagne truffle cookies at Bernie’s Bavarian you wait. “The salad itself is brown rice, raw grated beet, in 2017; Crossfield by late Bakery (136 Railway St. W.) “Our rack of lamb, our linguini with seafood and raw grated carrot, raw slivered kale with pea pods 2015. Owner Bernhard Fortner hand-crafts loaves, our chicken portofino, a dish we created for the and sesame seeds,” she explains. “The dressing buns, baguettes, pies, desserts, cookies, tarts and restaurant, are our most popular,” says Langlois. is a fresh flavour explosion, a beautiful green cakes from quality ingredients. Of the 17 breads He notes the secret to the restaurant’s success smooth dressing that no one can ever figure out.” available, several are on offer each day, such as is the quality of service and food. More than 60 different fresh items are kamut, Rustic Seed, Munich House bread and “I think it’s because we’re consistent,” he says. available at Twisted Basil, which is different Bow River rye. “We have extremely friendly service, we know from many other establishments in Cochrane. “The ingredients in the baked goods are everyone and everyone knows us. It’s being “We have a great combination where people what make the difference. People come back always on top.” can run in quickly and grab fast food, but it’s all for more,” says Fortner, who is originally from A discussion of Cochrane’s gastronomical completely healthy,” says Swan.

WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 23 COCHRANE Side of ranch Cochrane embraces its roots with Stockmen Memorial Foundation

by Shawn Hoult The collection is housed at the Bert Sheppard Stockmen’s The Stockmen’s Memorial Foundation also works with Foundation Library and Archives in the Cochrane other organizations, including the Town of Cochrane, to ochrane was built around ranching — literally. RancheHouse. bring the region’s history to life. Society volunteers take part The site of the historic Cochrane Ranche still sits “It was created to celebrate and make people aware of the in various town events such as the recent Heritage Day and in the town’s centre and downtown stores still ranching history in Alberta,” says head librarian Jana Wilson. the Calgary Stampede. offer the kinds of rustic façades one might have The library annually welcomes more than 3,000 guests Cochrane town councillor Joann Churchill says the area’s Cexpected during the ranch’s heyday. through its doors, with visitors ranging from history buffs to rich ranching tradition has long played an important role in So it is only fitting that this hotbed of ranching history students on field trips. Cochranites’ lives, and that heritage continues today. should be home to one of the country’s largest collections of “We have all sorts of people coming in here and tracing Having a resource like the Stockmen’s Memorial ranching documents and artifacts. their family history back through their pedigreed livestock,” Foundation has been important in allowing residents to The Stockmen’s Memorial Foundation was founded says Stockmen’s Memorial Foundation president Don connect with their past, she says. in 1980 with the goal of protecting Western Canada’s Hepburn. “From Cochrane’s perspective, it’s a real draw for ranching heritage. More than three decades later, it has The majority of the foundation’s collection has been attracting tourists and folks who are interested in our become a treasure trove of history tying Cochranites, donated either by the government, other organizations or Western heritage,” says Churchill. Calgarians and Western Canadians to their region’s past. private citizens. Though library contents can’t be checked “The Stockman’s Foundation and the memorial library The foundation’s collection features tens of thousands out, visitors are welcome to view artifacts and enjoy a itself could be anywhere and they chose to have it in of artifacts, including rodeo programs, photos, sheet music, collection that spans more than a century and includes a Cochrane. I think it’s very fitting because of our history, and poetry, posters, videos, maps and even cancelled brand files. number of one-of-a-kind pieces. it helps to instil our roots because it’s here.”

ST t & G s lo ude Incl Fairmont The $ Sq.Ft. at 436,000 2187 Starting Big Lots! Unbelievable Value! Visit our showhome today 8 Heritage Green, Cochrane, AB 403.981.0048 You won't believe the lot sizes, “home selections and views. This is deﬁnitely Cochrane's best kept secret. We absolutely love our Fairmont home.” New Products. New Ideas. New Trico. Visit us online or at one of our many showhome locations Trico Homes is proud to build in these ﬁne communities

24 SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS ADVERTISING FEATURE Dreams come true at Jumping Pound Ridge in Cochrane ouldn’t it be great to go home to corner of Cochrane, Jumping Pound Ridge tice to the surroundings. Both Cornerstone with homes on ridge lots that offering 52 feet a quiet neighbourhood, drive up is surrounded on three sides by the Toki Homes and Gallery Homes have recently of space starting from $500,000, building that Wa peaceful street to a distinctly Nature Reserve. joined the community’s builder team, join- perfect home is even easier. crafted home, have a chat with friendly The 170-home community includes an ing WestView Builders. To see Jumping Pound Ridge first hand, neighbours and then look out at the sur- array of lots that sit on the ridge, offering The community features a Craftsman-style visit the show home parade currently rounding wooded natural reserve? gorgeous views that will remain unspoiled theme that embraces the area’s western heri- featuring both Cornerstone and WestView, If you said yes, then Jumping Pound for decades to come. tage while adding upscale modern features. with further show homes expected from Ridge is the community you have been With such an amazing setting, one of the All three builders excel in creating custom both Cornerstone and Gallery this spring. looking for. biggest problems for a developer is finding homes. The philosophy is if every dream set- For more information visit www. Perched atop a ridge in the southwest builders that can create homes that do jus- ting should come with a dream home. And jumpingpoundridge.com.

Jumping Pound Ridge is proud to introduce two new custom builders!

Jumping Pound Ridge is proud to introduce two new custom builders to Cochrane’s premiere development. Cornerstone Homes and Gallery Homes are excited to help you build a legacy that will last for generations, on a ridge view that will last a lifetime. With ridge homes from the $500’s, and central homes starting in the low $400’s, your dream home is within reach! Come visit us at Jumping Pound Ridge!

INTERIOR LOT HOMES starting in the low $400,000’s • RIDGE LOT HOMES from the low $500,000’s

WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 25 ADVERTISING FEATURE Evergreen Ridge’s final phase offers best of both worlds ith most new communities, from the 2,016-square-foot Axis 2 design homebuyers have to sacrifice to the 2,544-square-foot Staccato. Wamenities and convenience Three-, four- and five-bedroom models as they wait, sometimes years, for the are available, with great builder features neighbourhood to develop around them. such as full-length two-car garages, and Not so with Jagerhaus’ Emerald Estates low-maintenance exteriors — meaning of Evergreen Ridge. you’ll never have to spend precious Being a part of Evergreen Ridge’s much- summer days painting. anticipated final phase means homeowners “The exclusive builder in Emerald get the best of both worlds: a brand-new Estates is Jagerhaus, which has gained a home in a well-established community reputation for providing great customer that already offers services and amenities service, adding to peace of mind for at your fingertips. people buying in the community,” says “These are the lots everyone is waiting Nielsen. for,” says Annette Nielsen, development A limited number of homes are currently consultant with El Condor Developments available for immediate possession. Model Limited Partnership, which is developing homes are also open for viewing. the southwest Calgary community Drop by the sales centre at 5 “Most of the 140 lots remaining back Everhollow Ave. S.W. at Everridge onto park, pond and pathways, as well as Drive (look for the signs off Fish Creek many cul-de-sac lots.” distance, while nearby 37th Street Plus, quick access to Highway 22X Boulevard) and check out the parade Nielsen notes Our Lady of the connects to Anderson Road, shopping means easy access to the mountains, of model homes. Hours are Monday to Evergreens, a K-6 separate school, is down on Macleod Trail and the Shoppes Bragg Creek, Priddis, Spruce Meadows or Thursday from 2 to 8 p.m. and weekends already built, and is within walking of Bridlewood. the Millarville Market. from noon to 5 p.m. distance of these lots. A second school site On top of all this, homeowners are only About 140 estate lots are available in the For more information, including is just to the north of Emerald Estates. minutes away from the LRT and the South final phase. Prices start from $470,000. designs, visit jagerhaus.ca, or call Fish Creek Park is also within walking Fish Creek Recreation Centre. Seven floor plans are available, ranging Lee Fernando at 403-873-1915. ADVERTISING FEATURE Mattamy invites you to live and relax by shores of Chestermere Lake he charming lakeside town of every family requirement can be satisfied Chestermere will soon be getting in Lakepointe. There are WideLot Tready for warmer days. This is a townhomes that range in size from place where you can participate in water 1,156 to 1,619 square feet. WideLot sports, catch the wind in a sailboat or Townhomes start from $254,990. just sit by the lake and watch the world There is also a fine selection of semi- go by. detached homes ranging from 1,665 to Mattamy Homes saw this as a 2,065 square feet. These homes have wonderful family atmosphere, and has two-car garages, and start at $339,990. just opened a new community in the The detached homes are a showcase town called Lakepointe. This is the for Mattamy’s attention to detail. These second neighbourhood Mattamy has exceptional homes will be available with opened in the Calgary area, and it has two-car garages in two series. They plans for more in the near future. range in size from 1,858 to 3,106 square Mattamy is the country’s largest new feet. Series I homes start at $389,990; homebuilder. Since 1978, it has built Series ll starts at $449,990. more than 50,000 homes in more than To get a first-hand look at the quality 150 communities across North America. and style of Lakepointe homes, Mattamy Its community of Windsong in Airdrie invites you to Windsong in Airdrie to is a major success, having just recently and the space to the shores will always And Mattamy’s collection of homes enjoy a tour of its extensive show home welcomed its 500th family. be preserved. There are also walking in Lakepointe has been architecturally collection. The company has impressive paths that connect Lakepointe residents inspired by the local surroundings. The Lakepointe sales centre is located at credentials, and Lakepointe is a true to downtown Chestermere. It’s a The neighbourhood has been planned 400 West Park Dr. in Chestermere. Hours example of all it has learned in building community of natural features and green with homes at various distances from are Monday to Thursday from 1 to 8 p.m., master-planned communities. space. It’s a place where you’ll hear the curb, which helps create attractive Friday from 1 to 6 p.m. and Saturday to Lakepointe is a place where a lots of children’s laughter. It’s a place streetscapes. Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. maximum number of homes offer views where children will rediscover the great The homes themselves come in a For more information, call 403-519- of the water. It is adjacent to the lake, outdoors. variety of sizes and styles, so just about 4083 or visit www.mattamyhomes.com 26 SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS

New Models from $470’s Sales Center open Mon - Thur 2pm - 8pm & Weekends Noon - 5 pm Sales Center: 5 Everhollow Ave., SW Contact LEE FERNANDO 403-873-1915 WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBS SUBURBS + SATELLITES APRIL 2012 27 mattamyhomesalberta.com

It Would Be A Pleasure To Meet You In Chestermere. Come And Discover The Joys Lakepointe Of Lakepointe Living. We’re new in Chestermere and we just want to introduce ourselves at our new community of Lakepointe.

We have been building homes and communities for over 30 years and currently we have built more than 50,000 homes in over 150 communities across Canada and the United States.

If you’d like to see exactly what we offer as a builder/developer, we invite you to visit Windsong in Airdrie and tour our streets and our Showhomes. Lakepointe is by the shores of Chestermere Lake, a quick walk from the centre of town and an easy commute into Calgary. Come to Lakepointe and find a special family home. We’d love to meet you. Live By The Shores Of Chestermere Lake

Airport

10 mins. To Calgary Widelot™ Townhomes from $254,990 Trans-Canada o r 16th A ve. We Road s t Par Semi Detached Homes from $339,990 Drive k adise

a r Sales Series I Double Car Garage Homes from $389,990 P Centre 17th Ave.

Series II Double Car Garage Homes from $449,990 Chestermere Lake These prices include the lot, the home and GST. There are no condo fees on any Mattamy home. 400 West Park Drive, Chestermere, Alberta

Sales Centre Hours: Monday to Thursday 1pm-8pm; Friday 1pm-6pm; Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 11am-6pm 28 SUBURBS + SATELLITESAll APRILillustrations 2012are artist’s concept. All dimensions are approximate. Prices, specifications, terms and conditions subject to change without notice.WWW.CALGARYHERALD.COM/SUBSE.&O.E.